Eastertide
May 5, 2017
Scripture Reading: 1 Peter 2:19-25
Green leaves and sun light
‘He committed no sin,
and no deceit was found in his mouth.’
When he was abused, he did not return abuse; when he suffered, he did not threaten; but he entrusted himself to the one who judges justly. He himself bore our sins in his body on the cross, so that, free from sins, we might live for righteousness; by his wounds you have been healed. For you were going astray like sheep, but now you have returned to the shepherd and guardian of your souls. –1 Peter 2:22-25
I believe in the need for judgement but I am not sure what that means. It is important for me to hold myself accountable for what I commit to do. It is also crucial that I identify correct priorities, actions, and behaviors. I wonder if people can be objective, or if it is even necessary to be objective, about the decisions we make regarding our call and our response. The test of time tells me that my instincts are usually right and I still shy away from following them. How does one get past oneself to attain the ability to entrust [oneself] to the one who judges justly? How did the disciples encounter and suffer from constant abuse and not take that as a sign to give up their mission?
Jesus Christ is a just judge. His decisions are always fair. Christ’s judgement regarding our ways of doing and being is the only one that matters. When we examine ourselves in concert with Christ we can be assured that his justice is the right justice. Now granted, I have wrestled long and hard with Christ as I try to comprehend his way, his truth, and his life and as I try to emulate him. I have found over the years that it is better to deal with life’s challenges adjusting along the way trying to stay in sync with God as best I can. My hope is if I do that consistently, judgement, whatever that means, will take care of itself.
Prayer:
Search me, O God, and know my heart;
test me and know my thoughts.
See if there is any wicked way in me,
and lead me in the way everlasting. (Psalm 139:23-24)
Create in me a clean heart, O God,
and put a new and right spirit within me.
Do not cast me away from your presence,
and do not take your holy spirit from me.
Restore to me the joy of your salvation,
and sustain in me a willing spirit. (Psalm 51:10-12)
Amen.