Scripture: Hebrews 12:1-2
Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight and the sin that clings so closely, and let us run with perseverance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus the pioneer and perfecter of our faith, who for the sake of the joy that was set before him endured the cross, disregarding its shame, and has taken his seat at the right hand of the throne of God.
Thought for the Day: The recent death of Dallas Willard, the great teacher on the spiritual life, has gotten me to pick-up some of his older books and reread them. In his well known book, The Divine Conspiracy, Willard wrote, “My hope is to gain a fresh hearing for Jesus, …[because] presumed familiarity has led to unfamiliarity, unfamiliarity has led to contempt, and contempt has led to profound ignorance.” I almost used this quote in Sunday’s sermon as I talked about the danger associated with an assumed comfort and knowledge of scripture. This can so easily have us making unhealthy declarations about God and faith. I’ve been guilty of it myself. What I thought was there was not entirely there, and the conclusion I made based upon a false starting place was even more troubling. As Willard suggested, we need a fresh hearing for Jesus which includes, among other things, a serious look at scripture.
Prayer: Help me, Living Lord, to look again at Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of the faith. Keep me diligent in my search, always contemplating both the scholars and the saints whose insights and experiences can enliven my own. Amen.
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1 thought on “Ecclesiological Etchings: 06-11-13”
This is a great reminder and encouragement to read the scriptures daily — thanks !!!