A Word about the Word
For while bodily training is of some value, godliness is of value in every way, as it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come. [1 Timothy 4:8]
“Bodily training” (literally, gymnazo) is valuable indeed. From how we feel about ourselves to the way we handle everything from stress to illnesses to aging, physical fitness matters big time! How is your personal fitness “program” going?
I like how the passage above mentions not just the present but the future in what makes “godliness” more valuable. We can be so stuck in the now, especially these days. This present world with Covid and on-going polarizations makes every day a challenge. The good news is that there is a world beyond this one—a world where peace and healing flourish. We mustn’t become so stuck on this present world that we lose sight of the “life to come.”
Close to Home
“River crossed, bridge forgotten.” When you get to the other side, it’s easy to forget what got you there. We move too fast getting onto the next thing. Three years ago, as a church family, Trinity pledged together to give and sacrifice “for those yet to come.” We built a new Gathering Space and gave a beautiful facelift to the Worship Center (we completely redid the parking lot, too). I would be remiss if I didn’t shout, “Yes! We did it!” Together, let’s be grateful for the many who gave sacrificially and to our Lord who enabled it. This Sunday we will celebrate and give thanks as well!
Take a minute to think about going to Target or Giant Eagle. Huh? Now think about deciding to wear a mask to worship on Sunday morning. We all want this to be over. But we all must persevere in seeing this through.
The World as It Is
Can you imagine seeing that on vacation!?
President Biden ordered the flags be lowered to half-mast again on Friday, following another mass shooting, this time at a FedEx warehouse in Indianapolis. Lord, help us!
#CultureNerd
Some movies you might put on your watch list:
Harriet: This movie tells the extraordinary and courageous story of Harriet Tubman’s escape from slavery and transformation into one of America’s greatest heroes.
Luther: A film about the great reformer who, 500 years ago this past Sunday, uttered the historic words, “I cannot and will not recant anything, for to go against conscience is neither right nor safe. Here I stand, I can do no other, so help me God. Amen.” [Martin Luther, April 18, 1521]
The Letters: A strong depiction of Mother Teresa told through personal letters which she wrote throughout her life. This hero of the downtrodden of India was also a troubled and vulnerable lady who at times felt isolated and distant from her God.
I’ll catch you on the other side.
