I
want to make two points and then pose a challenge, if I may.
(1)
We live in an amazingly beautiful part of the world. Okay, there are pot holes
and power cuts. And many of us have serious struggles. Ill health or various kinds
of disaster can afflict any of us at any time. But many of us have relatively good
lives much of the time. We are amongst the most affluent people in the world.
Indeed, most of us are probably relatively comfortable by UK standards. There
is so much in the world to appreciate and enjoy. A sunset. Music. Food and
drink. You could make your own list. Perhaps you have a nice home and are
looking forward to a holiday.
(2)
May people of different faiths or none will be amazingly kind and generous.
So,
my challenge is this. And I say this as much to myself and my own family as to
you. In our context, if you think of yourself as a committed Christian believer,
what difference does it make? How are you distinctive compared to your friends
and neighbours? Do you live as salt and light? Could someone ask you for the
reason for the hope that you have? Would someone look at your relationships and
say, “see how these Christians love one another?” To put it pointedly, what
shows that you are not living for this world alone but are seeking a greater
heavenly City whose architect and builder is God? Yes, you are no doubt often a
lovely respectable member of your community who does your bit, but when did you
last give something up for Jesus – something you cared about? Are you willing
to do something for Him which is actually a bit hard, or weird, or costly,
something that you don’t in a sense want to do? How has Jesus changed you? How is
he changing you? What might he be calling you to which perhaps involves an element
of risk, a step out with him into the unknown? He gave up all for you. What
might you joyfully give up – or take up – for him?
I
might take some time this Lent to reflect on some of these things. Maybe you
might like to make them a matter of prayer too.
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