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Wednesday, November 25, 2020
As for those who in this present age are rich, command them not to be haughty, or to set their hopes on the uncertainty of riches, but rather on God who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. They are to do good, to be rich in good works, generous, and ready to share, thus storing up for themselves the treasure of a good foundation for the future, so that they may take hold of the life that is really life. 1 Timothy 6:17-19
This week, all around the country people will pause, even if it’s just briefly, and thank God for what they have. It will be especially striking to those of us who have not experienced loss or extreme hardship while navigating the pandemic. This passage from Timothy reminds me that as a follower of Jesus, my task each day is to give thanks for what God has provided.
Notice that Paul doesn’t suggest that those “who are rich in this present age” get rid of all their possessions. Paul doesn’t call on those who are “rich in this present age” to not enjoy what they have.
Is it possible God may call on us to do this? Yes. Remember, Jesus saw how the rich man made an idol out of money and called on him to sell everything he had, give his money away, and follow Jesus.
But assuming God isn’t calling you to do that right now, the point is that what we have been given is to be handled with care and treated with respect. Remember, if you are a follower of Jesus, what you have been given has been given not because you deserve it, not because you earned it, and not because you were owed it. We are called to enjoy what we’ve been given, but more importantly we are called to remember who gave it. To embody the qualities of the giver and participate in God’s work in the world.
Throughout the rest of this week, let us work to demonstrate generosity, extend grace, and live with awareness that the greatest gift that one can be given is that of eternal life.
Friday, November 20, 2020
Today’s reflection is written by Deacon Karen Katamay.
“He changes times and seasons, deposes kings and sets up kings.” —Daniel 2:21
“Great and amazing are your deeds, Lord God the Almighty! Just and true are your ways, King of the nations! Lord, who will not fear and glorify your name?” —Revelation 15:3-4
How election weary are you? I sure am! All the intense emotions, misrepresentations, and distortion of facts that turned people against each other and divided families, friends, and communities. Even as we long to return to normal with the pandemic, I also long for a return to kindness, compassion, and caring for all God’s people, regardless of who they voted for.
After all, there can be only one King and Lord, and that is Jesus. We can elect people to guide us and lead us in the ways of our country and world, but it is God who has the true power. God is the one who changes time and seasons. God is the one doing great and amazing deeds in our lives and in the world. God is the one giving us strength and wisdom to deal with the pandemic and inspiring the scientists who are developing the vaccines and cures. God is the one whose ways are just and true, and God is the only one worthy of our worship.
Next week, as we celebrate Thanksgiving, let us remember that and give thanks that we have a God of love and grace who is truly amazing! Thank you, Lord! Amen.
Wednesday, November 18, 2020
We must obey God rather than any human authority. Acts 5:29
Lately I’ve been thinking about those things in my life that have slowly worked their way into an elevated position in my day to day. How tightly do I cling to money? If I were to loosen my grip, do I trust that God would provide? If I were to completely and forever commit to eliminating behaviors that are contrary to the life God calls me to, do I think the life Jesus offers would be better?
When my mind is clearest, when I am oriented toward God, I am able to see these things as they are, idols. They are false Gods. They are lords that I have elevated to the point of having dominion over my life.
For each of us, these lords rob us of the life the Lord of Lords intends for us to live. The call of every Jesus follower is to turn back and orient ourselves toward God. So today, let us subject ourselves not to the lords that rob us of joy, but the to the Lord who brought joy to this world through the life, death, and resurrection of His Son.
