Tuesday, January 28, 2014

Response to Unexpected

Image courtesy of Tanatat / FreeDigitalPhotos.net
The blind and lame are healed!

Jesus does WONDERFUL  things.

Children shout praises to Jesus.

But these things are not supposed to happen in church!  At this time in history, the blind and lame were not allowed past the outer courts. They weren't invited to feasts. They were "avoided."

Jesus acts counter-culturally.

Children weren't of much value - they certainly don't interrupt important church procedure.

Jesus moves in an unexpected way. He involves those who are typically avoided-excluded. He ministers. He moves among them.

They are indignant. What they see grips their mind, never their heart, and they stand in judgement of the way Jesus is moving among them. They take on the role of judge and become grieved at the break in cultural protocol, they become resentful and indignant.

They do not worship.

They are offended by this unexpected movement of Jesus.

What about me?

Help me worship you, Jesus, more than my traditions, more than the status quo, more than my comfort levels. When you move in unexpected ways may I be on the front line with the children, shouting your praises, rather than indignantly observing that which is not expected.

Musings from Matthew 21:14-17

Choosing Joy!
©2014 D.R.G.
~Coram Deo~
Living all of life before the face of God...

3 comments:

Ev said...

Reading/meditating on Acts 5 this morning - & the way the disciples moved in Holy Spirit - moving in the unexpected, outside tradition. Delivered from prison they didn't just run around testifying God delivered them (which is OK), they stayed on track proclaiming Jesus. I see a real connection with your blog this morning. Thanks for sharing. Blessings.

DeEtta @ Courageous Joy said...

Good point, Ev.

Anonymous said...

Sis: "IN THE FRONT WITH THE CHILDREN" says it all. We must worship in truth and not be afraid to let all thots and frightened feelings leave...... just worship like a child and like a young person. YEAH! Love the worship in other lands.... they just open up and let it flow. awesome!