Current actions speak louder than words. It’s that simple. In theory.
Yet we still hold on to so much of the past. It’s not that the past doesn’t matter. It’s that it doesn’t matter nearly as much as the present.
The point Jesus is making to those listening in that context is easily-discerned. But as we extrapolate out its implication to today, we must be careful not to assume that we’re not the assuming ones, of presumptive placement in the kingdom of God. It’s not really about titles or longevity or who your grandpa was (though each of these can be inspiring contributors to what we do). Rather, we must act out the content of our faith.
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Today is Sunday. As you worship with the Church today, take gratitude in the present moment. Maybe the music isn’t as good as last week or thirty years ago. Maybe the sermon is boring. Maybe there aren’t as many people as there once were. Maybe it’s too cold or too hot. Or maybe you’re just not feeling it for whatever other reason. But it’s the moment you have and you are there and Christ is present. Take gratitude.
Happy Sunday, beloved.
Matthew 21:28-32
“What do you think? A man had two sons. Now he came to the first and said, ‘Son, go and work in the vineyard today.’
“‘No, I don’t want to,’ he replied. But later he changed his mind and went.
“The father said the same thing to the other son, who replied, ‘Yes, sir.’ But he didn’t go.
“Which one of these two did his father’s will?”
They said, “The first one.”
Jesus said to them, “I assure you that tax collectors and prostitutes are entering God’s kingdom ahead of you. For John came to you on the righteous road, and you didn’t believe him. But tax collectors and prostitutes believed him. Yet even after you saw this, you didn’t change your hearts and lives and you didn’t believe him.
Prayer
God,
Give me vision for the moment. This one. Today. Help me to see what’s in front of me - creation, people, opportunities both for production and for rest.
But also give me capacity. Fill my lungs with the breath of your spirit. I really like jump that earl grey tea gives these days, but I’d love actual inspiration, which is to be filled with the space for purpose.
And Lord, bless your church today. Move us to the things of Christ. I do like well-worded prayers and songs and scripture, God, but give us whatever it is that leads to action.
By your spirit & in Christ,
Amen.
“But it’s the moment you have and you are there and Christ is present. Take gratitude.” Amen.