Peculiar
The follower of the carpenter needs to see themselves as distinct and peculiar. We need to come to a place in our existence that we simply accept that as a people of God, we will do things, and hold to values that the rest of the world will find odd.
Their reaction to us can be from mild amusements, through to amazement, often with a dose of hostility thrown into the mix. IT will happen, get used to it!
When we join in a community of faith, we should be noticed as different. It doesn't matter if in that community of faith we are gathered (as in worship time), or dispersed (jobs and family), the same peculiarity should pervade us.
We might not always seem different, but whether recognised by others of not, we should be different. This is the effect of being led by another being.
As an example, a child will see lego blocks on the floor, not as something to be tripped over, but as a potential boat, or house or robot. We can watch them, as they build, and they work happily creating something, that in their "mind's eye" they can already see. Nothing distracts them from the task at hand.
So the follower of the carpenter, surrendered to the Spirit, should perceive of a better world, one in which the Kingdom of God is denoted by the rule of the King. A place of blessing, peace, shalom, and love. We can work towards it steadily, without being distracted, for we can see something that others miss, our eyes, mind and spirit, are drawn to a higher place. We can see a true future, and one in which we seek to partake now, this becomes our overarching purpose, no matter what others may think.
Questions for reflection
Where have you recognised the kingdom today?
In what way has your life been altered because of the carpenter?
How have you blessed others because of your desire for God's shalom?
Their reaction to us can be from mild amusements, through to amazement, often with a dose of hostility thrown into the mix. IT will happen, get used to it!
When we join in a community of faith, we should be noticed as different. It doesn't matter if in that community of faith we are gathered (as in worship time), or dispersed (jobs and family), the same peculiarity should pervade us.
We might not always seem different, but whether recognised by others of not, we should be different. This is the effect of being led by another being.
As an example, a child will see lego blocks on the floor, not as something to be tripped over, but as a potential boat, or house or robot. We can watch them, as they build, and they work happily creating something, that in their "mind's eye" they can already see. Nothing distracts them from the task at hand.
So the follower of the carpenter, surrendered to the Spirit, should perceive of a better world, one in which the Kingdom of God is denoted by the rule of the King. A place of blessing, peace, shalom, and love. We can work towards it steadily, without being distracted, for we can see something that others miss, our eyes, mind and spirit, are drawn to a higher place. We can see a true future, and one in which we seek to partake now, this becomes our overarching purpose, no matter what others may think.
Questions for reflection
Where have you recognised the kingdom today?
In what way has your life been altered because of the carpenter?
How have you blessed others because of your desire for God's shalom?
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