23 August Part 2

23  August    Part 2

Read Romans 12:1-8. This is an easy and familiar passage to read, but to respond so as to do it justice is hard. To renew the mind is to rethink in Jesus’ way and at Jesus’ direction. This re-thinking then is to result in bodily action which is honouring God and also honourable. The Christian life is not something conducted only in the mind but in word and deed, thought and action. Every part of us, our whole being is to be subjected to the command and guidance of Jesus. To fulfil this command will take a close relationship with him, remembering that Jesus is the Lord and he alone is in charge. Theologians tell us that “spiritual worship” is perhaps better described as rational or logical worship. Some translate it as rational service reminding us that it is body, mind and spirit which are united fully in the worship and service of God.  We cannot hope to achieve this without being constant in prayer, always keeping before us Jesus and his relationship with each of us. This is a daily task for the pressure to conform to the norms of the society in which we live are constantly on us. As Jesus reminds us, disciples live their lives at odds with the world. (John 17:16). So the constant challenge is not to conform to the ways of the world but always be immersed in all that is approved by God.

We are presented with an impossible task except through the grace and the gifting of God. This is a transformation which changes us at our very core. I am reminded of a phrase taken from the prayer in the Methodist Covenant Service, “I am no longer my own but yours. Put me to what you will, rank me with whom you will; put me to doing, put me to suffering; let me be employed for you, or laid aside for you,..” (from the Methodist Service Book”)

This radical change is made possible only because of the new life that Jesus gives to each believer.  He has rescued us from the power of darkness and transferred us into the kingdom of his beloved Son, Colossians 1:13 (NRSV)   Paul then goes on to say that believers need to use their new found status to support the unity that Jesus brings by his reconciling grace. In other words at least part of our rational service is to build one another up in love. As we serve God we also serve each other and so God is glorified.      

Prayer. Lord, your way is perfect and your plan for us is without fault. Help us, day by day to trust in your goodness and grace. May we let our lives rest fully in your hands; and find great comfort in the security of your love. As you guide our steps and protect our way, may we in turn be ready to serve you, to use our energy not in self-protection but in willing service. You are our strength and stay, ever keep our eyes on the love and grace you give to us. So may we possess quiet and contented hearts and minds, dedicated to your honour and glory. Through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Read Matthew 16:13-20. But who do you say that I am?

This is an important disclosure within the gospel story. Jesus is presented by Matthew as the Messiah. This would have been a deeply moving revelation for the disciples to hear. We have become so used the thinking of Jesus as Messiah (Christ) that the words have less impact that they would have had for the disciples on that day. God’s chosen one standing among us! We come to this understanding only through the insight of the Holy Spirit. It is not that we cannot have the knowledge of Jesus as Messiah without the Holy Spirit, but we cannot begin to understand what that really means without the Holy Spirit. To know Jesus as Messiah had a profound impact on how we live life and on how we view ourselves. With Jesus as Messiah there is nothing in life or death that need make us afraid for Messiah ushers in the new creation and the fulfilment of ancient promises for the people of God!.  Despite Matthew’s amazing disclosure the passage confronts us with a stark reality for it poses the question, “Who do you say that I am?”. In the end with all our knowledge and understanding the question remains, “Who is Jesus for us?” Is he a name in a book or is he the living Saviour who sets us free to follow and obey him?

Prayer. Grant us O Lord the faith that trusts not in signs and wonders but in your love and faithfulness towards us. Grant us that measure of faith as will sustain us each day of our lives. Grant us such wisdom and insight as we will need, to fully serve you to the very best of our ability.  Save us from all self seeking; keep us at all times in your grace, may our strength be drawn from you, and may our lives be readied for your perfect service. May we have a true appreciation of your great love for us and so find security in the hand you hold out for us. Lord may we take your hand and walk each day with you. Grant us a closer walk and the more fervent heart for you. In Jesus Name we pray. Amen

Collect. Jesus, Messiah of God, you invite our faith; grant us the grace to trust you as Peter did, and in our day to proclaim you Son of the Living God. Amen.