Editing is hard especially when it involves cutting out something you really love. Every weekend this happens, and I really hate this part of my preparation. It’s one of the things I love about Transformation Journey, the Tuesday night Bible Study I teach. WE have so much more time to chew on some stuff that wouldn’t fit on the weekends.
But I’ve learned that this is a critical part of the process if for no other reason, it simplifies the message and helps me stay focused on the most important things I need to communicate. All that being said, this is made easier by the fact that I can post something here on Monday that didn’t make the cut!
So, I hope you enjoy chewing on this… I’d love to hear your thoughts on how this quote speaks to you.
Leave me a comment below.
“The worldwide community of believers is meant to be a microcosm in which the divine purpose in reclaiming the entire creation is anticipated and through which, as a reconciled and reconciling community, that purpose is furthered. If this is the case, then the most urgent task of Christians is to play their part in making the church a place of healing for broken relationships… and an agent of peace and justice… Whatever the details of the future prepared by a loving and just God, our present focus is to say and do all we can as agitators for the values of the coming new world.”
New Intepreters Commentary, volume XI, page 611
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David, I must admit that I really haven’t chewed on your comment except for “making the church a place of healing for broken relationships”. At times it seems that THE(meaning the whole Christian community) church is the last place we can admit to broken relationships. How many times do we hear of a divorce, after the fact. How many times do we hear of a financial problem that has destroyed a family,after the fact. The same can be true of adultery, addiction, depression and many more. We as a community of believers need to be sure we have a safe place where it’s OK to not be perfect. Then there can be healing. I think that’s what the broken see in Jesus - safety and acceptance. A place to heal. Thank you for always reaching out to those who hurt. Libby
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