The Eternal Ramifications of Discernment 3/27/13

"He who loves his life loses it, and he who hates his life in this world will keep it to life eternal." John 12:22

There are many things that our Lord said that require discernment.  Because there have been people throughout history who have opposed him based simply on his claims and what he stood for, things that need not have been controversial have indeed become so.  This is of course said with full realization that many things he said were indeed controversial because it challenged the then current (and present) understanding of life, religion, God, love, service and even himself.  As a result, for example, an exhortation to simply set aside a portion of a common meal to remember him and his sacrifice for all mankind became a charge that Christians were cannibals.  Because he cast out demons, he himself was called a devil.

Beloved it is important that we look deeper into the word that is the man Jesus and discern the truth and spirit of what he is still saying to us.  A casual listen to any empaneled talk/news program or a perusal of any on-line story with comments enabled, even Facebook, will prove that everyone has an opinion and not all opinions are rooted in facts.  Often we are predisposed to a position without looking into the particulars of any given subject.  Even within and perhaps especially including religion, controversy rages.  Is baptism necessary?  Should women hold leadership positions?  What is the "churchs'" position on homosexuality?  What about divorce and remarriage?  To be sure, there are answers to these questions, but if they do not fit our preconceived notions and heartfelt position, cases are made to support them and whole religious movements are built around them.

Each of us will one day stand in judgment for the things we have done, lived and believed.  The word of the Lord will be the standard and Almighty God will be the judge.  It is critical that each of us develop our own understanding of who Jesus is and what he had to say.  Marriage to our earthly based opinions can be fatal.  A heavenly perspective can extend life forever.

Committed,

Lee