03-13-20

ECCLESIOLOGICAL ETCHINGS
March 13, 2020
Scripture: James 1:2
My brothers and sisters, think of the various tests you encounter as occasions for joy.

Thought for the Day: As I drove home from the church last night, there was a rather strange looking bug clinging to my windshield. Though my top speed on my drive home was 41mph, the little guy seemed to hold on quite well. Though every time I stopped, he would move around, might I say that it looked like a dance. And then I’d start driving again, and he’d hunker down. Finally, at the second stop light along Louetta (I was trying to get to 45mph, but the light stopped me) he danced for a moment and then flew off. That bug offered me some truth last night. There are times when we just hunker down and hold on, but when the breaks come (no matter how short), it is time to dance. When James spoke of testing, he was not suggesting that God was behind the testing. Sadly, that’s where a lot of folks go in their thinking. The world and life in general can test us quite well. God is not the source of our tests, but the Source of love and grace amidst the testing. Today, you might feel as if you are being tested by all that is happening in our world. I think that’s fair. But remember that you are loved without any conditions; that grace abounds beyond measure; that you are a beloved child of God. For that reason, when you have those momentary breaks, take the time to dance. It doesn’t ignore the difficulty or challenges that will return shortly, but it reminds us – even in those moments when we are desperately clinging – that there is nothing that can separate us from God. Nothing!

Prayer: In those moments, no matter how short, allow me to find a way to joyfully celebrate your love, O Lord. Whether it is a short-lived moment of joy for me alone or a gift I can give to someone else, I desire to be defined by my status as a beloved member of your family. Amen.

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