Today’s scripture: Matthew 23:23-36 (ESV-text and audio) (KJV) (The Message) What might God be saying to me?
My thoughts (Cheryl Stonestreet):
Today’s passage is the core of Jesus’ demonstration against the Pharisees and scribes in the temple at Jerusalem. He took a very bold action going into the temple and calling them out on their corruption. This was no diplomatic speech, to say the least. I think that His central objections had to do with their image management versus being true leaders in faith.
Image management takes a lot of work. There are a lot of bases to cover and each and every action, public and private, can have unforeseen implications. As more and more actors come onto the stage, the ability to control the scene breaks down. But that’s okay, the Good Image is still manageable. Then the disease of “More!” takes hold; questionable actions occur, and the vortex expands. As it continues to spin it gets large and unwieldy. It starts to wobble because some items are taking more time and energy than were allotted. Inevitably that Good Image explodes into chaos. Everything you worked for is gone.
Faith management takes a lot of work, too. At first it feels euphoric because it feels like you’re in the safe zone — shielded from the troubles of life. Then realities of day to day living creep in. That co-worker who gets under your skin, really starts to aggravate you. Your car breaks down and you don’t know where you’re going to find the money to fix it. Somebody in your family gets sick and needs your help almost every night.
But instead of trying to control life, you manage your faith. You talk to God daily. You read something uplifting. You listen to soothing music. You go to worship service. Even when it doesn’t feel like you have the time, you make yourself take small moments for yourself and let your mind focus on something you enjoy. You allow yourself to truly smile, and you still find things to be grateful for. Amazingly, instead of exploding into chaos, everything eventually works out.
Thought for the day:
Image Management = a lot of work with little reward.
Faith Management = a lot of work with infinite rewards.
Work smarter, not harder.
We encourage you to include a time of prayer with this reading. If you need a place to get started, consider the guidelines on the How to Pray page.