Ordinary Time

Pause

Child of God, you are called to a grand adventure.

Child of God, there is peace in this journey.

Listen

So then, brothers and sisters, we have an obligation, but it isn’t an obligation to ourselves to live our lives on the basis of selfishness. If you live on the basis of selfishness, you are going to die. But if by the Spirit you put to death the actions of the body, you will live. All who are led by God’s Spirit are God’s sons and daughters.

Romans 8:12-14

Think

One of the coolest new things on the market features cutting edge technology to deliver a virtual reality gaming experience that mimics real life. Through a special headset, a player enters into a world that seems real. Players can have the experience of battling on an alien planet, bicycling through mountains, or running on the beach. Virtually reality technology continues to improve as it provides users the ability to escape their current reality and enter into a world that stimulates the senses.

This passage in Romans reminds us that we are not to live on the basis of selfishness — or as other translations say, “according to the flesh.” Living in the flesh is not fulfilling or eternal. It is when we live according to the Spirit that we become truly alive.

Like virtual reality, we can continue seeking the next thrill that satiates our senses and allows us to escape from our present. Yet, it is when we take off that headset that we are able to truly experience the life that God has for us. The Spirit-filled life is one that offers us true fulfillment.

Noelle Owen

Pray

God, help me to put aside the temptation to live according to the flesh. Open my heart to the abundant life in your Spirit. Amen.

 

 

Go

In the glow of each morning, seek adventure.

In the shade of each sunset, embrace peace.