Word for the day by Christian Education Forum

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 Called to be the Light

Philippians 3:7-16

V7 “But whatever were gains to me I now consider loss for the sake of Christ.”

When I was looking around the house, I came across my degrees and plaques that were symbols of my accomplishments.  My name was etched on them, showcasing my achievements for all to see.  But this passage reminds me how foolish I had been.  My earthly pursuits held no value in the eyes of God.

Even within the church, we strive for titles and positions.  Through Sunday School competitions, Diocesan exams, or church positions, we attempt to prove ourselves to others.  However, Christ in His humility shows us a different way.

Instead of amassing possessions, how many of us surrender ourselves to God?  We applaud those who excel in public speaking, but do we lift up the humble amongst us?  Do we seek out those who are suffering in our midst?  We often fail to exemplify this aspect of Christ because there is a cost.  It is uncomfortable.

I often run away from the suffering and pain of this world.  When I promise to pray for others, I pray from afar.  I desire to be like Christ but unwilling to be identified with His humility and suffering.  

We point to the cross but are unwilling to carry our own.  The crosses we choose to carry are fashion accessories around our necks, mere symbols rather than the way of suffering Christ calls us to.  Our faith has been simplified to an intellectual exercise rather than one that directs our thoughts and actions.  

Let us embrace His righteousness.   Let us perish, so that we too may be resurrected in Him.  Let us comprehend that the light we are called to shine is not our own, but the light of Jesus Christ.

 

Prayer
Father God, we thank you for your Son, Jesus Christ.  May the Holy Spirit lead us to recognize our divine calling, to exchange our righteousness for the righteousness of Christ.  Grant us the courage to embrace humility and endure suffering, so that we may identify with Christ and His resurrection.  Let our lives be a testimony to the One who called us.  Amen.

Thought for the Day
Freedom is what we have. Christ has set us free .Stand then as free people and do not allow yourselves to become slaves again  . Gal 5:1

Tom Philip
Redeemer Mar Thoma Church, NJ
            

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