Sometimes we make what we say and do in the church way too complicated. In the official examination of those who seek to be ordained by our Bishop, the first question he asks is, “Have you faith in Christ?” In the 27 years since that question was asked of me, I have come to believe it is the most important of all. It is a question that is not only for preachers, but for everyone who desires to follow Christ and be part of the Church.
On the face of it, it is the most elementary of questions. Most would respond, “Of course, I have faith in Christ. I wouldn’t be a Christian or a member of St. Barnabas if I didn’t.” But a second look reveals that having faith in Christ is about a whole lot more than intellectual assent or taking a church vow. It describes a commitment we have to making Christ the very center of what we think, say and do. Faith in Christ means developing a growing and strong relationship with Christ through prayer (speaking and listening), study and daring service. I fear that sometimes we can fall back to a Christian ethic (a way of behaving) or habit (going to church or Sunday School Class), rather than having a living fire within that makes a difference in everything.
It is this “faith in Christ” that sustains us when everything else falls down around us. Then God’s Spirit rises within us out of emptiness, grief, confusion and despair, like a Phoenix rising from the ashes. I have seen it happen over and over again through the people I have known and I have seen it in myself, Tina and our family. So take some time this summer to sit quiet alongside a river, lake or mountain ridge? Pray and reach out to God who is closer to us than our breath. Take some more time to examine your heart and where your life is headed and the attitudes that seem to dominate at this time. Finally, take time to receive a fresh dose of his Spirit, filling every part of you. Then faith in Christ becomes more than a statement or belief. It becomes our life force that carries us through anything, our launch into the great things of God.
Sincerely in Christ,
Will
Coming Sunday Themes:
August 2 Holy Communion – Star Wars & the Gospel, pt. IV “The Point of Sacrifice”
August 9 Sending Forth our College and University Students – Star Wars & the Gospel pt. V “It’s About More than the Force”
August 16 Celebrating the Ministry of us All – inside and outside the church walls – a Laity Sunday you’ll not soon forget.
August 23 Honoring the ministry of teachers, administration, staff, specialty resourcing and parents with students.
Thanks to everyone for sharing resources and giving time and effort to our Star Wars & the Gospel series (musicians, characters, narrators, technicians, and providers of costumes, posters, statues and other memorabilia). It’s been fun, informative and inspirational for us all.