Ordinary Time

Pause

Approach God with quiet, gentle movements.

Refuse to be “loud” and eager to do the talking.

Come ready to bow down . . .

and listen . . .

and find purpose,

as one who remembers what it is to be less than holy.

Listen

Therefore, my loved ones, just as you always obey me, not just when I am present but now even more while I am away, carry out your own salvation with fear and trembling. God is the one who enables you both to want and to actually live out his good purposes.

Philippians 2:12-13

Think

Think about the effort involved in writing a research paper. Picture the repetition necessary to learn formations for a marching band or drill team performance. You get out of it what you put into it. The quality of the final product reflects the amount of energy devoted to each task I mentioned. Working hard primarily in the presence of a teacher, band director, or drill team leader only gets you so far.

Paul’s letter offers encouraging words to these believers who work on their faith development. He also cautions that God alone gives us a willingness to follow and obey. We need God’s help to stay spiritually engaged.

Looking back on my own faith journey, I see an ebb and flow like the ocean’s tide. Surges of devotion and seasons of wandering happen as we navigate life. Discovering that God pursues us makes all the difference. No matter where you find yourselves today, pause and thank God for giving you an interest in following Jesus.

Brian Abel

Pray

God, help me remember that following Jesus is not something I do. Following Jesus is something you help me to do. I’m grateful. In the name of Jesus, amen.

Go

Rise from a kneeling place.

Embrace God’s call to put others first today.

Resist the urge to find a spotlight.

Allow the light of God’s love to shine brightly, even boldly, through you.