The day began in the Word. Well, after the coffee was brewed and email and Facebook had been checked. Yes, then the day began in the Word, steaming coffee at my side, journal on my lap, pen in my hand. I've loved getting back into this routine now that Katherine's presence is more routine. It's my deep breath of Life before the family is awake and the day's bustle begins.
Several things came together in this time:
- Fresh on my mind was our discussion at Bible study last night about Philippians 2:14-16, particularly do everything without complaining and arguing. The final application question was: In what specific ways do you need to make a concerted effort not to grumble or question God's dealings? Right away I thought about my constant complaint that "there's too much to do." And as I pondered why this is, it hit me that one major reason I complain about this is how much my identity is wrapped up in being on top of things, organized, put together, in control. Looking around at or thinking about all that I need to do (home projects, school preparations, relationships, etc.) and being confronted with my inadequacy brings quick complaining, because it's the situation not me that's the problem.
- Earlier this week a friend from high school had briefly ranted in a status update about parents who are always bragging about their parenting. Her summary was, and I paraphrase, What are you bragging about? You're just doing your job!
- A few days back, I read in Luke 17:9-10 ~ Would he thank the servant because he did what he was told to do? So you also, when you have done everything you were told to do, should say, "We are unworthy servants; we have only done our duty."
- This morning I read the parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector going to pray in the temple. You know what I'm referring to? The Pharisee's prayer is pompous and presumptuous. The tax collector begs God's mercy. I wrote this in my journal: The Pharisee was not going above and beyond [with his giving and fasting.] He was doing what was right. Back to the parable of the servant, "We are unworthy; we've only done what you told us." So if our identity and pride don't come from our deeds, where does it come from? WE BELONG TO THE LORD! Joy in Him and our place in His kingdom - which we do not deserve and no amount of deeds could earn. Wow!
In the waning moments of my quiet time, I tried to draw up a list of verses to remind me of my true identity. - yours too if you belong to the Lord!
- I Corinthians 6:19-20 Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price.
- I Corinthians 7:23 You were bought at a price; do not become slaves of men.
- Colossians 1:27 To them God has chosen to make known among the Gentiles the glorious riches of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.
- Colossians 3:3 For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God.
- I John 3:1a How great is the love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are!
- Galatians 2:20 I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.
Today I was interrupted by the futility of the things in which I place my identity and the glorious beauty of the identity God has given me through Christ. It's crazy awesome. Oh to dwell more regularly on this truth!
What would you add to this list of verses to help remind you?
Also, if you don't know Fernando Ortega's Children of the Living God, it's a great hymn related to this very topic. Sadly, there is not a good YouTube recording.
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