Today’s scripture: Ephesians 5:6-14 (NRSV) (The Message) (KJV) What might God be saying to me?
My thoughts (Sue Robinson):
I grew up in a household where church was a Christmas, Easter, and maybe a few other Sundays kind of worship life. My parents were very moral and good, but they didn’t feel that church was a priority. “I can worship just as well at home,” or “We can love God and still go camping on Sundays,” or “God doesn’t care if you are sitting in a pew. I watch Oral Roberts on TV and that’s enough.” So my concept of church and religious life was sporadic and not very consistent. When we went to church, I never attended Sunday school. We just went for the grown-up worship. My brother and I sat wiggling in the pews, not understanding one single thing that was said; and we left without stopping to talk and fellowship with others.
From an early age, I felt in my heart that there must be more to this church thing than that. I had Catholic friends who had a very different experience. Their worship was strict, stern, regimented, with very precise rules and ideas. I remember playing church with my best friend, Linda, who was two years older than I and a very fervent Catholic. She taught me how to make the sign of the Cross. One summer day I was walking past the John Knox Presbyterian Church in Speedway, Indiana. The church was close to the street, so I went up to the big double doors, stood solemnly, and repeatedly crossed myself. I’m sure I thought I was being very devout and spiritual. I have no idea what the passersby thought could possibly have gotten into this little ten year old girl! Looking back today, my confusion is touching but sad. I had no idea how to find this God or what I needed to do to be in God’s good graces.
Our passage for today tells us that once we know good from evil, by the Holy Spirit’s leading, we need never go back into the darkness again. By praying and studying God’s Word, the Bible, we will develop that inner knowledge of what is true. Verse 8 in The Message Bible says “The bright light of Christ makes your way plain. So, no more stumbling around.” If we will take seriously the study of God’s Word, we will never again be led astray by false teachers and ideas. The Message says “Figure out what will please Christ, and then do it!”
Prayer for the day: Lord, please help me to see what is pleasing to you. All I need to know, you will imprint on my heart. Amen
We encourage you to include a time of prayer with this reading. If you need a place to get started, consider the suggestions on the How to Pray page.