Have you ever been involved in an activity that you could really care less about? I think if we are honest with ourselves, we can all come up with times that this is true. That business meeting that is a complete waste of our time, but we are required to be at might be such an occassion. Having to take a class in high school or college because there were no other elective options available might be another example. Going to a party that we really don't want to be at, but must attend in order to get our annual bonus or some other reason. In each of these instances, we likely are there, but not there, if you know what I mean. We are physically present, but our hearts just aren't into it. This can happen in our churches and in our individual faith journeys as well. The scriptures have something to say about this:
Revelation 3:14-22 "To the angel of the church in Laodicea write: These are the words of the Amen, the faithful and true witness, the ruler of God's creation. 15 I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot. I wish you were either one or the other! 16 So, because you are lukewarm-- neither hot nor cold-- I am about to spit you out of my mouth. 17 You say, 'I am rich; I have acquired wealth and do not need a thing.' But you do not realize that you are wretched, pitiful, poor, blind and naked. 18 I counsel you to buy from me gold refined in the fire, so you can become rich; and white clothes to wear, so you can cover your shameful nakedness; and salve to put on your eyes, so you can see. 19 Those whom I love I rebuke and discipline. So be earnest, and repent. 20 Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with him, and he with me. 21 To him who overcomes, I will give the right to sit with me on my throne, just as I overcame and sat down with my Father on his throne. 22 He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches."
Today's Prayer:
Gracious God, help us to be passionate about our faith in authentic and transparent ways. Rescue us from the laxidaisical and luke warm ways we worship, study and engage you and others. Allow us to be full of your joy and presence this day and always. Amen.
Revelation 3:14-22 "To the angel of the church in Laodicea write: These are the words of the Amen, the faithful and true witness, the ruler of God's creation. 15 I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot. I wish you were either one or the other! 16 So, because you are lukewarm-- neither hot nor cold-- I am about to spit you out of my mouth. 17 You say, 'I am rich; I have acquired wealth and do not need a thing.' But you do not realize that you are wretched, pitiful, poor, blind and naked. 18 I counsel you to buy from me gold refined in the fire, so you can become rich; and white clothes to wear, so you can cover your shameful nakedness; and salve to put on your eyes, so you can see. 19 Those whom I love I rebuke and discipline. So be earnest, and repent. 20 Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with him, and he with me. 21 To him who overcomes, I will give the right to sit with me on my throne, just as I overcame and sat down with my Father on his throne. 22 He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches."
Today's Prayer:
Gracious God, help us to be passionate about our faith in authentic and transparent ways. Rescue us from the laxidaisical and luke warm ways we worship, study and engage you and others. Allow us to be full of your joy and presence this day and always. Amen.
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