Ruminating the Obvious

Just when you think you have things figured out, a congealing of the thought processes, all puzzle pieces connected...or at least in cohesive piles...your mind is lead into unchartered territory...or at least areas you probably flew by in this journey of life.

But isn't it odd that we have chosen a "time" of worship and the appropriate manner in which to process that worship, a true blue agenda of the perfect amount of singing, praying, preaching and communing?

Isn't it odd that this program agenda is more important than consoling, praying with or listening to one who needs us?

Isn't it odd that what is allowable in one instance of Bible study is not allowed in others?

Isn't it odd that one of the most precious components of our worship, taking the Lord's Supper, is mostly one of few words, a hurried affair, taken for granted and passed through without feeling...just another point on our schedule for the morning "worship"?

Isn't it odd that we do not show with our voices, with our emotions, with outward appearance the reverence and awe due to the absolutely divine presence of God in our midst?

Isn't it odd that we do not see God in our midst? Does the brightness of our fluorescent lighting outshine the holiness of God?  

Isn't it odd that we cannot see or admit to our traditions?  Are we so set in our traditions that we are blind to all else?

Isn't it odd that we confine worship to a church building?

Isn't it odd that no one wonders these things...but me?

Hatred ~ Simply a Void of Love

Another senseless killing, families devastated, leaving a soul in jeopardy of eternal life...for what?  Fame?  Notoriety?  Revenge?  

Questionable state of mind is immediately voiced and commonly used to justify or plead.  We slink away from calling it simply and honestly - hatred and evil. 

Opportunities arise quickly and those whose hearts are led by the hatred and evil jump to proclaim revenge, to finish the job, to inflict more pain and loss.  

And my heart hurts.  Tears fall and the doubts arise that this world can ever be made peaceful and just in the eyes of God.  Doubts arise that our sinking sand can ever be shored to keep us from drowning from this pit of self-seeking, revenge-obsessed, black hole of distrust and prejudice and lack of agape love.

Where does one turn to when life is rearing an ugly head?  To the only source worth quoting:

“So whatever you wish that others would do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets."  Matthew 7:12  

We made this incident; we contributed to it in even the smallest ways. Directly or indirectly, we are responsible.  But God can use this for good.  Our part now is to love with the love of Christ, encourage with the strength of the hope within us, saturate our immediate surroundings with acceptance, prayer and deep desire to have peace towards one another and indwelling of the Spirit to want the best...above ourselves...for others.

Dear God, help us for you are strong and we are weak.