11-22-24

ECCLESIOLOGICAL ETCHINGS
November 22, 2024
A funny thing happened on my way to the office yesterday. Actually, that is not true. Nothing funny, out of the ordinary, strange, or exciting happened on the way to the office yesterday. Honestly, starting a story with the words, “And nothing out of the ordinary happened on my way to the office…” is probably not going to grab anyone’s attention. Yesterday, as I delved into the book of 2 Kings, I couldn’t help but notice the absence of a single chapter that begins with the words, “And nothing out of the ordinary occurred…” Each chapter paints a vivid picture of God’s voice resonating through the land, of rebellions, dramatic proclamations from prophets, and miraculous experiences for widows. The list goes on and on.

Two intriguing possibilities emerge from this observation. Either the writers of the scriptures refrained from detailing the mundane, or perhaps the world was brimming with the divine presence, and every moment was in fact saturated with God. Maybe it is a bit of both, even though that might sound like a contradiction. I’m sure there were many boring and uneventful days that were not recorded, and I’m sure Elisha and Naaman and others appreciated those days. I also believe that a certain expectation creates an openness and awareness to the presence of God that is forever present in every moment of life. This realization prompts me to reflect on my own journey to work yesterday, wondering if I missed any divine moments amidst that routine drive.

Thank you, God, for your presence that is never dependent upon us. Your love always finds a way to come alongside us. For that reason, we request your Spirit’s nudge as we awaken to previously unnoticed encounters with you. Amen.