out of step....

Yesterday was Easter. I chose not to celebrate the goddess of fertility or participate in annual bunny worship! I'm not really interested in arguing theology in this blog at this time. I simply want to express my frustration (whether founded or not). From my perspective the Messianic Jews of the first century welcomed the gentiles into the faith with open arms. Within one century the church began to reject its Hebrew roots (and the associated rich culture). The church began to substitute (or invent) its own holidays and celebrations. Something of value was lost in the process. We have replaced the rich symbolism of Passover with bunnys, eggs, playing dress up, and some snippets about resurrection. I am not a Jew. I am not compelled to live as a Jew. However, come April 19th, I plan to celebrate Passover with family & friends. I will weep as I see the Lambs sacrifice in the elements of the Seder. I will weep as I read from Isaiah about the suffering servant. I will rejoice as I read about the Holy One not being allowed to undergo decay (resurrection). It was in this setting that Jesus helped his friends, the early disciples, understand who He was thru the unleavened bread and the 4 cups.

Yet, at the close of day yesterday, there was a yearning in me. I do not want to be detached from my bretheren. On Easter Sunday believers (and unbelievers) gather in record numbers. They represent many levels of understanding, commitment, faith, and sincerity. Many are real in their desire to honor the One whose sacrifice and resurection is the topic of the day. I want to be in concert with those genuine hearts. My wife & I joined hands at bedtime and asked the Lord to join our prayers and hearts with the millions of others who see The Messiah as the hope of life.

kingdom credentials

I'm pondering the concept of Credential. The reader might well misunderstand how I use the word. In secular culture (and in church culture as well) Credential relates to ones education and experience. When you apply for a job the interviewer will critique your credentials. Do you have the right education? Do you have adequate experience in the associated field? If these elements are not in line you probably won't get thru the door. One must take great pains to prepare his/her credentials for their pursuit.

The Kingdom of God seems to be different. Jesus chose fishermen, tax-gathers, and other common men to launch His Kingdom. The Pharisees would later marvel at these men because they understood Jesus' followers had no secular credentials. God designed it that way. Paul informs us God intentionally selects the simple & base thru whom to reveal His glory. There can be no human boast because we, like those early followers, know our own weakness. New leaders are emerging that don't fit the secular/religious paridgm. You are one.

We all have credential. By that I mean we all have a sphere of influence. Each of us are stewards of both a unique story and a unique collection of relationships with whom we communicate. We must all learn to be faithful to share the hope that is within us in our given sphere. Jesus taught us that if we were faithful in little things He would entrust us with much. If we are faithful in our current sphere it will grow.

At this moment in history God is choosing simple men and women to advance His kingdom in simple ways. Don't be intimidated by anyone else’s credentials. Your story is your credential. Be faithful with it and God will use you in a powerful way!

Mickey