Just a thought (and I invite your comments)…based on everything that is taking shape in our world…esp. the down economy and the pressures this places on everyone, whether its a job loss or a company of people fighting to keep their jobs…I am driven to ask the following question:
If our churches are filled with disciples, shouldn’t we be looking at a time period in which our churches explode with growth? I mean, the light shines the brightest when the world is at its darkest, right? The history of the church has proven this. If that is the case, then the current storm clouds are providing the Christ follower with an obvious (and perfect) opportunity to express his/her faith.
Where is your peace that passes understanding? Or, are you, like others living as those without hope, even though you have a hope and with it this peace that passes understanding. This is your gift to the world. Do not hide it.
2 Comments
March 6, 2009 at 3:25 pm
A great heads-up, Doug! This is a reading of the times that makes “practical” and spiritual sense. Who knows but that God put us here in the kingdom for just such a time? May He grant us to live in these times without the usual murmuring and complaining that often pervades life. May He grant us that spirit that enables us to shine like stars as we hold out the “Word of Life” in a dark time that others might begin to think more of what really counts and can be counted on. May He grant us that we value human souls enough that concern over our portfolios runs far beneath our radars. May He help us not to fear their fear…but to offer the holy boldness that His love brings us and waits to bring them too. May He help us realize that our faith is not simply for some future day or some huge future trial…it is for today. It is for our families…our friends….our neighbors…our co-workers and fellow-students…our world…TODAY…NOW!
March 8, 2009 at 2:26 pm
Amen..amen..amen. “A faith for today.” I like that. We need that…all of us. – Junior