05-15-20

ECCLESIOLOGICAL ETCHINGS
May 15, 2020
Scripture: Ephesians 4:1-3
I therefore, the prisoner in the Lord, beg you to lead a life worthy of the calling to which you have been called, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, making every effort to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.

Thought for the Day: With humility, gentleness and patience, we are to bear with one another in love. Other translations say, “Accept each other with love” -or- “Be there for each other in love.” I look at those three attributes (humility, gentleness and patience), and I think to myself, “Could I pick two of the three?” Depending on the day, the two I choose might change. Actually, two will probably be too much of a challenge so maybe I determine which one comes easiest and just do that one.

This reminds me of just how important it is as a Jesus follower to be very mindful of oneself. Where am I challenged? Where do I choose a limited number of Christ-like attributes because a few of them are simply too hard from my standpoint? I believe God still loves me, but I can’t imagine that God will say, “Oh Bruce, don’t worry about that patience thing. Just let it go.” Instead, through prayer, study and the wisdom of the faith community, I believe improvement is always possible. Which one of those mentioned by Paul needs your attention today?

Prayer: Merciful God whose generosity in love is beyond anything I can imagine, I seek your assistance as I do some internal work. I am not looking for perfection, but improvement for the sake of the calling you are putting before me. I cannot be who you need me to be unless I am striving to become all that I can be. Amen.

---

---

via WordPress https://ift.tt/2Z5Alw1