What Will Your Verse Say?
There are some things that you learn, and while you don’t really forget them, when they are brought back to mind, do you kind of think: Hmmm, that’s interesting…?
Throughout the Sundays of Easter the readings in the pericopes are taken from the book of Acts. Pentecost and Trinity Sundays give us “the birth of the Church” and Peter’s Pentecost sermon from Acts 2. Then, we are not given much more, depending on what cycle in the three year lectionary series is upon us. The thing that was brought to my mind this past week that made me go “Hmmm”: The Book of Acts leaves us hanging. All we get is Paul in an Air B&B for two years! What happens to Paul? Peter? Luke? Barnabas? John Mark? What happens after the Temple is destroyed in 70 AD? So many questions…
Let me try to make you say “Hmmm.” The liturgical calendar is divided into two parts: The Life of Christ and the Life of the Church. While we wait for the return of Jesus, we are reminded of his last words on the cross, “It is finished.” Jesus’ work of salvation is complete. He is ascended to the right hand of the Father, end of chapter, end of book. Now the work of the Church begins. Go, make disciples. The work of the Church continues to be written. I like to think that these are the books that are opened before the throne in Revelation 20. The continuing work of the Body of Christ. Will you have a mention in one of those books? What will your verse say? Will you get a whole chapter or two?
The odd thing about getting a mention in the Bible, it is usually not a pretty picture. Paul gets to stay at an Air B&B, but what about Saul and those persecution things? Yes, you may have a high point, but your low points, weaknesses, and sins are open for all to see. So, do the best you can as you continue the work of the Church. Rejoice all the more that your name is written in the Lamb’s Book of Life, because of Jesus’ completed work for you.
Trust the Promises,
Steve Skiver