Asides

March 21
1 Comment
Uncategorized Aside

“Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute.” (Proverbs 31:8, NIV)

Are we channels or are we reservoirs?

Reservoirs are designed to take-in and hold.  Channels give as they receive. God expects us to be the latter.

Today’s scripture reminds us of our responsibility to expend the “capital” we’ve received (whether it be time, talent, or treasure) for the benefit of others — particularly those who are destitute or disenfranchised. God blesses us in order that we might bless, in His name, those who have not.

Jesus came to the lost, the least, and the last.  As His disciples, we can do no more; we should do no less.  – Luther

Tagged , , ,
March 20
Leave a comment
Uncategorized Aside

“All people are like grass, and all their faithfulness is like the flowers of the field. . . The grass withers and the flowers fall, but the word of our God endures forever.” (Isaiah 40:6b, 8, NIV)

In the spring of each year, we are reminded of the splendor of nature as lawns and fields green-up; and flowers add bright colors to every scene. It is wonderful to behold, but we know it lasts only for a season — even if it is repeated next spring.

Isaiah reminds us that we, too, are like the grass and the flowers: Magnificent in many ways, but also fleeting. In the context of more than 6,000 years of recorded history, our singular 70 or 80 years of life is less than a dim spark.  

Isaiah also reminds us that though we are less than a vapor, God’s word endures for all of time and eternity. If we desire any permanence in what we do or say, it must be enveloped in — and consistent with — God’s word. Such consistency comes only through the reading and the heeding of scripture.  – Luther

Tagged , , ,
March 19
Leave a comment
Uncategorized Aside
“Zechariah asked the angel, ‘How can I be sure of this? I am an old man and my wife is well along in years.'”  (Luke 1:18, NIV)

“’How will this be,’ Mary asked the angel, ‘since I am a virgin?’” (Luke 1:34, NIV)

It is okay for us to wonder how God will deliver us, or how God will provide for us, or how God will work-out an unworkable situation.  Such thinking challenges our creativity, and reminds us of God’s greatness.  God always arrives; and God is always on time, but He often appears from a direction or in a situation we had not considered. 

On the other hand, it is not okay to wonder whether God has the power to deliver us, or the resources to provide for us, or the know-how to ensure success, because this kind of thinking insults our heavenly Father. 

Today’s two scriptures are contrasts in these two ways of thinking about apparent impossibilities.  In the former, Zechariah (the seasoned religious professional) questioned the promise and, as a result of his unbelief — was sidelined by God.   In the latter, Mary (the simple, young, religious novice) questioned only the process while affirming her allegiance to the plan and the purposes of God.  

To this day, Mary’s faith is heralded, while Zechariah’s insistence on “knowing before going” is a cautionary tale. 

The next time God presents you with an opportunity to join Him in a task, will you respond as Mary — or as Zechariah?  – Luther

Tagged , , , , ,
← Older posts
Newer posts →