"This is the day the LORD hath made, let us rejoice and be glad in it."
REFORMATION SUNDAY
John 8:31-36, Psalm 46
On this Reformation Sunday it is quite natural to reflect upon the
condition of the church in the days of Luther, Calvin, Zwingli, and
Knox to name a few. As we celebrate the church's ongoing renewal, we
may look for inspiration to these reformers. Each challenged the
church to live as the body of Christ during technologically dazzling,
morally ambiguous twentieth century, when valuing certain lives at the
expense of others resulted in a growing abyss between rich and poor
and, most horribly, in . . .
"This is the day the LORD hath made, let us rejoice and be glad in it."
REFORMATION SUNDAY
John 8:31-36, Psalm 46
On this Reformation Sunday it is quite natural to reflect upon the condition of the church in the days of Luther, Calvin, Zwingli, and Knox to name a few. As we celebrate the church's ongoing renewal, we may look for inspiration to these reformers. Each challenged the church to live as the body of Christ during technologically dazzling, morally ambiguous twentieth century, when valuing certain lives at the expense of others resulted in a growing abyss between rich and poor and, most horribly, in apartheid (racial segregation) genocide(extermination), and would war.
Like a new garment draped over our shoulders at baptism, God's Word of acceptance and grace comes from outside. To be clothed in Christ, to continue in His word, is to be surrounded, sheltered, and embraced. Secure in God's love, we are free to risk new ways of life and to reshape our communities of faith. But true freedom in is God's hands. It comes, as Jesus said, from "continuing in My Word." John 8:31.
What will church renewal and reform look like in the next century? We who are clothed in the Word and guided by the Spirit hold the answer, as we respond in joy to our common baptismal call.
So until the LORD calls us home, let's stay close to Him by reading and studying His Word. Let's worship Him regularly and thank Him for the great blessings He gives for our bodies and souls. Remember those reformers who have gone before us by not taking their Reformation blessings for granted.
LORD, keep us steadfast in Your Word; Curb those who by deceit or sword Would wrest the kingdom for Your Son, And bring to nought all He has done.
PRAY - Almighty God, gracious LORD, pour out Your Holy Spirit on Your faithful people. Keep them steadfast in Your grace and truth, protect and comfort them in all temptations, defend them against all enemies of Your Word, and bestow on the Church Your saving peace. Amen