Living in the Spirit
August 30, 2017
Scripture Reading: Psalm 105:1-6, 23-26, 46b
O give thanks to the Lord, call on his name,
make known his deeds among the peoples.
Sing to him, sing praises to him;
tell of all his wonderful works.
Glory in his holy name;
let the hearts of those who seek the Lord rejoice.
Seek the Lord and his strength;
seek his presence continually.
Remember the wonderful works he has done,
his miracles, and the judgments he has uttered,
O offspring of his servant Abraham,
children of Jacob, his chosen ones. –Psalm 105:1-6
I spent much of my career planning for the future, trying to foresee changing issues, matching shrinking resources with growing need, and buffering for the unexpected. From time to time it was important to remember accomplishments of the past. History is a great teacher when we learn from it.
We should take heart in the history of God’s intersection with God’s people. A quick read of Hebrews 11 might be in order. We do not need to limit our exploration of the acts of God to the Bible. Just in my lifetime, God’s hand was surely in
- The amazing restoration of Germany and Japan following World War II
- The Civil Rights Act in the USA
- The mothers’ movement in Ireland
- The end of apartheid in South Africa
- Reductions in Child Mortality particularly deaths caused by unsafe water
- The Prevention and Control of HIV/AIDS
What can we add to this list from small acts of God’s love to great?
After reading Hebrews 11, the above list, and the items we add consider the Hebrews 12:1-2
Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight and the sin that clings so closely, and let us run with perseverance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus the pioneer and perfecter of our faith, who for the sake of the joy that was set before him endured the cross, disregarding its shame, and has taken his seat at the right hand of the throne of God.
Our work is not finished: countries still fight, racism routinely raises its ugly head, the Child Mortality rate is still unacceptable, and new and different health problems demand responses. God’s loving nurture is needed throughout the world, and we are its conduits.
Prayer: God of Might and Miracles, strengthen us so that when needed, obstacles are moved keeping the world safe from war and environmental disaster; children and adults healthy in body, mind, and spirit; and justice prevails. Amen.