This past Sunday and over the next few weeks, we are delving into Philippians in a sermon series called ‘A Word for Today’-this week we are wrestling, pondering, marveling and marinading the word LIVE. We heard Pastor Tom remind us that ‘faithfulness is it’s own reward’ as we try to live lives in Christ. Faithfulness is aiming towards perfection with Christ as our centerpiece in life.
As you read the scripture below, consider how this speaks to you about making God’s presence more alive through your life, words and actions. Are you answering a call from God right now? Are you avoiding one? Are you listening? Are you really listening?
Before you begin close your eyes, breathe and out slowly for 30 seconds. C’mon…you can spare the extra time today.
Matthew 21: 28-32
"What do you think? A man had two sons; he went to the first and said, 'Son, go and work in the vineyard today.'
He answered, 'I will not'; but later he changed his mind and went.
The father went to the second and said the same; and he answered, 'I go, sir'; but he did not go.
Which of the two did the will of his father?" They said, "The first." Jesus said to them, "Truly I tell you, the tax collectors and the prostitutes are going into the kingdom of God ahead of you.
For John came to you in the way of righteousness and you did not believe him, but the tax collectors and the prostitutes believed him; and even after you saw it, you did not change your minds and believe him.
Today, may you find a place to seal this story in your heart. May you see this as an invitation to LIVE in this vineyard that the Lord has created. ‘LIVE’ing like a Christian is not easy friends. We get our priorities and our allegiances in life all mixed and mangled. It’s ok. That is just part of this weirdness that makes us diverse, flawed and human.
Wesley reminds us though that everyday we should be striving towards perfection. That is the goal! And a great part of working towards that goal is through daily Christian living that reaches out to the lost, the sick, the hurting, the marginalized and oppressed, the prisoner, the victimized, the poor who have nothing and the wealthy who may appear to need nothing. There are so many in need of a kind word or an earnest gesture that comes in the name of Grace and Peace in Christ. May it be so and may our church body continue to always extend God’s love and grace in all of life’s many seasons and especially the one we find ourselves in at present.
Pastor Michael