More than survival

As we finish Matthew 5, this first section of the Sermon on the Mount, I am reminded over and over that what I perceive and how I perceive the world to be and function is far different, many times, from the way the kingdom of God works.  I grew up with many adages and sayings from parents and those older and wiser than I that made “perfect” sense at the time, but in light of the words of Jesus, they are “You have heard it said of old, but I say to you . . .”. 

We all operate from paradigms and patterns that reflect our upbringing and the ways that we have dealt with and survived in the relationships around us.  Yet, Jesus calls us to do more than survive and operate to protect “ours.” The kingdom of God is not of this world, the glory is not for us, the goal is not to satisfy our desires, but instead, the kingdom of God, of heaven is to show forth the character and love of God.  Thinking back to the illustration of the grab-bag relay I shared yesterday, what comes forth from me when someone opens the bag of my life.  They expect someone with the character of God, but do they get a sick, twisted surprise because my flesh rises up, rather than the Spirit of God?  As I have thought back to those relays, the laughs that came because of the look of surprise (and revulsion) on the participant faces at times was priceless, I hope that my response in my relationships with others doesn’t bring laughter, but thankfulness that God has saved me and changed me to be like Him.  Galatians 2:20.

Pressing on…

Ron Tipton, Senior Pastor