Word for the day by Christian Education Forum

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Reformation: A Call for Renewal

Bible Reading: Luke 5: 36-39

Key verse:  37

Verse: 37 And no one pours new wine into old wineskins.  If he does the new wine will burst  the skins, the wine will run out and the wineskins will be ruined.

DEVOTION

 Through this scripture passage Lord Jesus explained the need for personal and spiritual  renewal  among all who received him as savior. Jesus emphasized that new teachings and movements cannot be  easily stiched into old traditions. The parable here illustrate  the need of embracing a change and the transformative approach to his divine message. Transformation requires flexible  attitudes and mindset to receive the messages received through the holy spirit.  The illustration of sewing a new patch on an old garment signifies that the gospel requires a fresh approach and can't be confined to old traditional frameworks. New wine represents joy and  the holy spirit  and must be placed  in the new wineskins to expand and grow.  Old containers cannot hold the vitality of life.
    Why do people  not prefer reformation or renewal ?  Jesus addressed the human tendency to cling on to the familiar practices.  People often resist change, because change feels  disruptive and difficult.  So instead of getting a replacement with new wine, people try to mix and match  -  by patching their old life with new faith which will cause deeper tear.  Christ exhorted people for a total remake and renewal, not adjustments according to personal conveniences. 
     This text calls for a renewal among believers , by examining their lives, traditions and practices.  We should be open to the new things God is doing in our midst, by allowing His grace to reshape  us like a potter modelling his clay.  It is time to look for old practices and habits which  hinder the spiritual growth, and should consider  making intentional changes to allow renewal.  While embracing new practices it is necessary to seek God's guidance in exploring new ways to live out faith. 
     In conclusion, let us recognize that change is challenging, but is often necessary for growth. Embracing newness allows us to fully experience  the life and joy that Jesus offers.  Let us therefore commit  to being open to the  transformative work of the Holy spirit in our lives and communities.
 

PRAYER

Heavenly Father, thank for making all things new. Help me to open my heart to the fresh work of your Holy spirit. Gently reverse my old, rigid ways of thinking and any confronting habits that keep me growing in you. Give me the grace to stitch, the flexibility to adapt to your new wine, and encourage to trust your expanding love. Empty me of the self righteousness , fill me with new wine, and make a flexible vessel ready for your purpose.

THOUGHT FOR THEE DAY

                  How  are we fostering a mindset of adaptability in our faith journey? What changes  might  God  be inviting  us  to consider?

 
Dr.John K Thomas     Tabor MTC  , New York

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