Acts 17 &18
Acts 17:27-28 God has done all this, so that we will look for him and reach out and find him. He isn’t far from any of us, and he gives us the power to live, to move, and to be who we are. “We are his children,” just as some of your poets have said.
Life’s journey, power and identity are what Paul tries to tell the Atheneans Jesus is all about. I think this continues to be a good word for our generation as well. In this age of self-meaning Paul comes and tells us that our story is not found in ourselves but in an unknown God who desires to be known. Not that God needs to be known (God is the star-breather…to quote Louie Giglio) but it is so very good for us to be known by God. We had a great time on Sunday of really experiencing God with us and God wanting us to know Him. Paul reminds us that God is nothing like what we humans can make up or design. God stands beyond our grasp and yet this same God takes hold of us in love. This reminds me that whatever I may imagine God to be that God remains beyond my imagination. This helps me get perspective of my smallness and God’s love because God is close. Without love God would always remain beyond. This is why Paul is so keen to tell the story of Jesus – God has come close! [Prayer - LORD thank you for coming close, giving life, and claiming us as your children. Help me to share this wonderful news with any and all. Amen]
Psalm 29
v 7 The voice of the LORD makes lightening flash and the desert tremble. This Psalm is a good reminder of the awesomeness of God’s Word. A good reminder that when I think that God is being silent, I should be glad because maybe I wouldn’t want to hear his voice. A good reminder that I need to pay attention when God does speak. Again, a good reminder of my smallness and God’s bigness! Reality checking is always a good thing. [Prayer - LORD my life does tremble and change when you speak. Praise your name forever! Amen]
