We were blessed today by a powerful message from Brother Wiley. He began by drawing us to I Corinthians 1: 26-31, “Brothers and sisters, think of what you were when you were called. Not many of you were wise by human standards; not many were influential; not many were of noble birth. But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong. God chose the lowly things of this world and the despised things—and the things that are not—to nullify the things that are, so that no one may boast before him. It is because of him that you are in Christ Jesus, who has become for us wisdom from God—that is, our righteousness, holiness and redemption. Therefore, as it is written: “Let the one who boasts boast in the Lord.”
Few of us are “Superstars.” But, that is the way God works. He has called us from among the ordinary so that the only thing we have to boast in is what Jesus has done for us. There really isn’t such a thing as a “self-made man.” Each of us is made by God in His image, and then we are bought by Him at a price. That price is the blood of Christ. How could we boast in anything else?
But just because we are not superstars does not mean we deserve to be overlooked or rejected. As it was just said, we were seen as worthy of acceptance by Jesus who loved us and gave Himself for us. If we are loved by the creator and saviour of the universe, how can we see ourselves as not measuring up?
God has called and gifted each of us. No matter what background we have (like Esther) been put here “for such a time as this.” Our past hurts and struggles have prepared us to aid those with similar backgrounds. Our failings can give insights to others that fail. But most importantly our salvation can show the way to others.
Jesus rose from the grave in power. We too are heirs to that power: “But if the Spirit of Him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, He who raised Christ Jesus from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through His Spirit who dwells in you (Romans 8:11).” We too have a Resurrection Life, a life that can transform the world.
Brother Wiley made a bold statement: “The time of superstars has passed.” It is time for we who are ordinary, yet transformed in Christ to take the stage and change the world.
From the coal – diamonds arise
See how the ordinary find their place to shine
Not with clever words or talents alluring
But in ourselves we can be the reflection of things divine
See yourself worthy of the calling given
Arise and take your place!
And be a lamp from under the bushel revealed
Let those around you -see in you – Jesus’ face
Padre
Padre's Ramblings 