Living in the Spirit
June 11, 2017
Scripture Reading: 2 Corinthians 13:11-13
Finally, brothers and sisters, farewell. Put things in order, listen to my appeal, agree with one another, live in peace; and the God of love and peace will be with you. Greet one another with a holy kiss. All the saints greet you.
The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Spirit be with all of you.
Theologians have struggled to describe God for centuries. Library books overflow with books trying to explain what is now called the Holy Trinity. Curiosity is built into human nature. The more we to understand God, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit, the better we can model our lives toward being in sync with The Lord. I must confess I have as much trouble with naming God when I write as the scribes of the Hebrew Bible had. My go to name is The Lord. In my mind, it covers all the dimensions of One who is indescribable except in the reported experiences, small glimpses of truth those who love The Lord share. When I use “God,” “Jesus,” “Christ,” or “the Spirit.”, I am thinking of a specific trait that fits my text. God is Creator/Parent, Jesus is Mentor/Role Model/Teacher, Christ is Messiah/Savior/Judge, the Spirit is Counselor/Advocate/Constant Companion. I am sure there are more. Each title holds its own significance for me. Forming relationships with each requires me to be malleable in my total growth and development, particularly spiritual development.
Paul’s final salutation in 2 Corinthians speaks to his understanding of the various aspects of the Lord. I am sure his sharings have influenced mine. Perhaps this is what he is referring to in Philippians 2:12b when he says, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling.
Prayer: The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Spirit be with all of you. Amen.