Scripture: Philippians 2:5-8
Let the same mind be in you that was in Christ Jesus, who, though he was in the form of God, did not regard equality with God as something to be exploited, but emptied himself, taking the form of a slave, being born in human likeness. And being found in human form, he humbled himself and became obedient to the point of death— even death on a cross.
Thought for the Day: Recently I read the words of James Finley, a guest writer on Richard Rohr’s blog. He wrote:
We begin in ego consciousness, imagining that the union with God we seek is far off. After all, ego consciousness is the subjective perception of being a separate self that has to find God, who is perceived as being other than one’s self. But as ego consciousness yields and gives way to meditative awareness, we begin to recognize the surprising nearness of God.
Now if you are like me, I had to reread that a couple of times. What I take away from it (after a few readings) is that there is a not so good notion of God being very separate from us, and this very distant perception of God leaves us believing that it is our task to go and find God. As an alternative, the writer suggests that meditation allows us to see how God is very near to us. Even Paul suggests that Christ made the decision, not to remain distant, but come close. Too often our focus is so ego-centered that we are unaware of the God who not only comes close but lives within us. Faith is often described as a union with God, but that assumes that there was, at some point, disunion. If we were created in the image of God, then the divine spark/divine image already resides within each of us. Faith is not seeking union with God, but gaining an awareness and celebration of the union that was always there.
Prayer: Work with me, Lord God, to see what I may miss at first glance. Help me to see your presence in my life, not simply as a visitor, but as One who has chosen to dwell within me and all of humanity. Amen.
SEE YOU IN WORSHIP
TODAY IS THE BIG DAY
Chili Cook-Off
In the Gym
at Noon
Bring your money to vote
Youth will have drinks and desserts
