“We must crucify the
deeply rooted desire to live independently of Christ.” We cannot add ANYTHING
to the gospel and we cannot be found ANYWHERE else but IN Christ (oh blessed
preposition “in”). What have I added to the gospel? Where do I wish to be found
more than in Christ? When do I resist dependence?
I have added works. I wish to be found somewhere
comfortable. Or on a boat. Or surrounded by my friends and family. And I resist
dependence ALL THE TIME.
This is a challenging sermon, but it offers so much freedom and
is coming at an incredibly opportune time! Transitioning back to school, even
from one weekend at Sonshine, is always filled with tensions. The Switchfoot
lyrics that Steve quoted in his last blog come to mind: “This is your life, are
you who you want to be?”
I find myself reevaluating my choices, my lifestyle. I see them
tested and tried and it’s not always pleasant. Paul says that “whatever gain I
had, I counted as loss for the sake of Christ.” I want to scream this with all
authenticity, but I first need my idols to be put to death. As I look back on
the years, I see how God has restored and reconciled myself to Him, but the work
is not yet complete- no one graduates from Jesus school!
I love how Nina picked out Paul’s plea with us to be sensitive
and surrendered. May the Spirit of God fill us with sensitivity to His work in
every corner of our lives and may we surrender to His will at every moment.
Even when it is not comfortable and seemingly quite lonely. May we then be
found in Christ and rejoice!
-- Mirm
Mirm I love how you put your thoughts into words. I am also feeling that blessed tension!!!! Thanks for sharing.
ReplyDeleteI definitely feel that tension. This may or may not have anything to do with what you're saying but this is the question that came to mind while reading, do I surround myself with the business of life so that I can escape from the uncomfortable Christ + nothing gospel or do I embrace the uncomfortableness and experience the everlasting joy of Christ? So challenging, so good, thanks Mirm!
ReplyDeleteI like the emotional intensity in your phrase - "I want scream this with all authenticity....." I am challenged/encouraged by your passion to turn Christ loose on your values and priorities! Thanks for sharing!
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