10-02-19

ECCLESIOLOGICAL ETCHINGS

October 2, 2019

Scripture: Romans 12:1-2

I appeal to you therefore, brothers and sisters, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your minds, so that you may discern what is the will of God—what is good and acceptable and perfect.

Thought for the Day: For those who know me, you know this is my favorite passage of scripture. Whenever I do a microphone check, I share this scripture as it is the first one to roll off my lips. When I read these words, a challenge confronts me – to be a participant in the work of God, I need to first take on the mindset of God. Too often people of faith say to themselves, “I’m going to follow in the ways of Jesus.” Those words may be said with the best intentions, but if are mindset is not with God, our desire to follow the will of God will not come to fruition. Ask yourself, “When I get frustrated or mad, what is the first thing that comes to mind?” Is it Jesus and his teachings? Most people will probably say, “No!” Lately, when something has stoked the negative energy within me, I have tried to find the words, “Jesus, provide me your Spirit of peace.” Now I must confess, I was not very successful this past weekend, but I continue to work on the renewing of my mind so that I might know the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.

Prayer: Center me, Transformative God, not simply in this moment of prayer. Center me for the day ahead, and for all the challenges that will be mine to face. Let my response reflect, not my fears or bitterness, but your love that shapes me toward your will. Amen.

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