Asides

March 5
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Uncategorized Aside

“Walk in obedience to all that the Lord your God has commanded you, so that you may live and prosper and prolong your days in the land that you will possess.” (Deuteronomy 5:33, NIV)

The benefits of obedience to God are clearly set-forth by Moses in today’s scripture.  

Writing to the Children of Israel, the benefits noted are: Life, prosperity, and longevity in a good place.  Most people find these benefits desirable, but one cannot truly apprehend them by following a “trial and error” method to living based on our own limited experience and point of view. God’s word provides us with the blueprint for life, prosperity, and longevity in a good place.  

Obedience to God’s word delivers to us these benefits — and a personal relationship with our heavenly Father.  – Luther

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March 4
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“Only be careful, and watch yourselves closely so that you do not forget the things your eyes have seen or let them fade from your heart as long as you live. Teach them to your children and to their children after them.” (Deuteronomy 4:9, NIV)

We each have a capital “s” Story and a little “s” story.

The former is the history of God’s dealings with His people, with whom — as disciples of Jesus — we identify; and of whom we have become through adoption.  The latter is the history of God’s dealings with us personally; what He has done for us personally.  Both stories are ours.  Both stories, if remembered faithfully, will keep our focus clear; our resolve strong; and our confidence in our heavenly Father unshakable.

Furthermore, these stories are not ours to keep to ourselves as a “private collection,” but ours to share with our children and our “children.” 

Today, recall your Story and your story.  These are our gifts to those who follow us.  – Luther

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March 3
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“Sitting down, Jesus called the Twelve and said, ‘Anyone who wants to be first must be the very last, and the servant of all.’” (Mark 9:35, NLT)

Jesus doesn’t ignore humanity’s competitive spirit, but He directs it to the channel of service — and few of us want servitude to be our destination. Even in our “service” organizations, leadership comes with benefits: Recognition; greater autonomy; and strategic activities.  Conversely, true servitude (e. g. the condition of the servant) is marked by obscurity, slavish obedience, and seemingly menial activities (e. g. “foot-washing” and door-tending). 

However, no where else is leadership — as Jesus defines leadership — to be found. 

Seldom will you find a line at the doorway to true service, but inside that door you will always find the company of the risen Christ.  Is this Person sufficient, or must we have perquisites (“perks”) as well?  – Luther   

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