Day 14: May 18I Corinthians 26-31 What a letdown! All of the study to enhance our knowledge, all of the meetings we attend to determine the “right” things to do, all of the effort to communicate our experiences of success to others, all for the Kingdom? Paul reminds us in these passages that even the most simple can understand it is our belief in Jesus Christ that opens the door to salvation. I remember as a very young youth, my “Little League Basketball Team” was called the “Bruisers!” (It seems rather silly to call any 4th grade group of boys, “The Bruisers,” but we liked it!) My older brother had taught me many skills as a basketball player, and the coach positioned me to score many, many points since I could actually get the ball up to the basket. After winning one game, I proudly announced to my Dad that I had scored 28 points of the 30 that our team needed to win the game. Oh, I was SO proud of my achievement. But then, my brother brought me back to reality when he reminded me that the other four friends on the team were the ones who defended our basket, retrieved the rebounds, and threw the ball to me so that I could score for the team! As we participate in the great discernment process leading to decisions that will affect our church for years to come, it behooves each of us to be a part of the team with the one objective of making disciples of Jesus Christ. We may not be able to keep score as easily as during a basketball game, but new disciples of Christ can be our victory. While those with unique and enviable skills will certainly lead our efforts, it will be a collective faith in the promises of God that will be the true guide to success. A personal relationship with God will give us the wisdom to determine what is best for the church. When the goal of growing disciples in Jesus Christ has been achieved, we can then boast in what the Lord has enabled us to do within a community of faith. Thanks be to God. Prayer: Dear God, the One with infinite wisdom and grace, we ask that You guide our actions and thoughts. Let us not think of what we can do, but let us think of what You can do. We ask of You to provide us the wisdom and the courage to do what is best for the Kingdom. We seek only to extend your kingdom to those who have yet to understand that You are the source of all that is good. May we only be proud in knowing You, our Lord and Savior. Amen. Rex Wolf |