11-10-19

ECCLESIOLOGICAL ETCHINGS

November 10, 2019

Scripture: Romans 12:2

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: As many of you know, this is a portion of my favorite passage in scripture. The word Renewing is how we translate the Greek word that could literally be translated as Into the Unprecedented -or- new. Paul appears to be suggesting that transformation comes by movement of the mind into this unprecedented or new perspective. It is there that we are better able to discern the will of God. Deepak Chopra writes, “I’ve worked all my life on the subject of awareness, whether it’s awareness of the body, awareness of the mind, awareness of your emotions, awareness of your relationships, or awareness of your environment. I think the key to transforming your life is to be aware of who you are.” I believe Paul would agree, for people do not move their mindset into something unprecedented or new without awareness of who they are currently and what external influences are upon their lives. You need to know your starting place, and that includes everything that influences and shapes you – family, work environment, the health of your body, the relationships you have, and what is your emotional state. Awareness is not something we fully achieve in this life, but an ongoing spiritual practice into which we can grow each day. Take a moment to quiet yourself and do an assessment – what emotions are just under the surface; what individuals bring you joy or stir up negative thoughts; what brings a smile to your face; what in your work or other activities is causing you stress; what physical issues are you facing? Awareness helps us really understand our current place, and it is only when we know our starting place that we can move into that unprecedented or new thing God is doing.

Prayer: Provide me space and time, Merciful God, to simply reflect and do a full assessment — body, mind and spirit. Teach me to be honest with myself about where I am and what burdens my soul. Allow me to see where I am, and from there, the path forward. Amen.

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