Honestly, most of us are not going to have an affair with a wayward man or woman. But the probability of us engaging in idolatrous behavior? That is quite high. Idols seduce us. Idols drag us away from our covenant. Idols will ultimately lead us to death.
Peter instinctively understood what we all need to hear: confession draws us near to God where concealment pushes us further away. Peter’s heart posture of desperation set him up for restoration.
This Mother’s Day, I am picturing my happy momma walkingthrough meadows of wildflowers with the One whom her soul loves. I’m imagining her engaging in deep theological discussions where everything Jesus says makes perfect sense and ah-hah moments abound. I can see them, sitting around a table laden with olives and cheese and bread and honey, breaking out in belly laughs when the Father cracks a joke. Conversations linger over long dinners and her soul is strengthened by unbroken fellowship.
Recognize that fear is an enticing apple from the enemy. It seems safe and even reasonable, but partaking will poison our soul. Moreover, realize the Spirit freely offers us the fruit we actually require: power, love and self-discipline.
As cosy as our home is, comfort will not cause us to grow. And the Great Commission will not be fulfilled while we are in our jammies. ‘Go’ is a vital part of the instruction. And truly, isolation leads to spiritual deconstruction: we’ve made the enemy’s efforts so much easier when we refuse to leave the house.
Real prayer is gritty and raw. Real prayer involves the give and take of forgiveness. Real prayer recognizes the audacity of the Creator communing with His creation.
“After the dead are raised up, we’re past the marriage business. As it is with angels now, all our ecstasies and intimacies will be with God.” (Mark 12:24 MSG) If marriage is, in fact, a limited engagement, how do we steward it well? Show up.…
It is remarkable how the risen, resurrected Savior sits with us in our sorrow.
I think about our Lord, wrapped in a length of cloth and laid in a cold, stone tomb. A pauper’s garb is just one more reminder of His humanity. Death is the great equalizer, is it not?