Tuesday, October 30

Today’s Lectionary Readings: Psalm 96 & 97; Proverbs 17:1-20; Luke 21:5-19; Romans 9:14-18

Some folks have designated the times we live in as the post-Christian age. This means that the times when Christianity enjoyed a place of societal honor and privilege have passed. If you listen to radio talk shows you know this is the case as you hear some folks complaining about this left and right. Their complaints include things like prayer being removed from public schools, faith-oriented floats being banned from seasonal parades, and clerks not being allowed to say “Merry Christmas” in retail stores. My take on all of this as a pastor is different than some folks might expect. I think the sense of entitlement that came with the power and privilege caused many of us to grow soft in our faith. As a result, we lost touch with the true nature of discipleship that Jesus called us to – a discipleship grounded in self-emptying, sacrificial love. Hence, I’m have no complaints living in a post-Christian world as I think the new reality can actually encourage us return to the true essence of our faith. Today’s passage from Luke, in fact, reminds us that God doesn’t promise us things will come easy for those who believe. In pointing his disciples toward the future, Jesus predicted, “They’ll arrest you, hunt you down, and drag you to court and jail. It will go from bad to worse, dog-eat-dog, everyone at your throat because you carry my name…” (Luke 21:12 from The Message). If that’s the case, how do we deal with the overwhelming challenges before us? By claiming the spirit of Luke 21;18 that reads: “Even so, every detail of your body and soul – even the hairs on your head! – is in my care, nothing of you will be lost.” Today, as you reflect on the challenges you face in living out your faith in the modern world, remember that Jesus’ never promised that things would always be easy for us. Rather, he reminded us that God would always be present with us - and care for us - in the midst of these challenges. May you draw strength and encouragement from Jesus’ words during your times of trial. Til next time…