What we don't have

As I was reading this morning, a few thoughts crossed my mind. It's about the New Testament and what is not there. In Acts we have the record of how the Church began and grew with specific examples of notable conversions. While the disciples were gathered in the upper room, the Spirit blew in and got things started. Then we have the message to the Jews that was preached at Pentecost in which the Spirit prompted 3000 to believe - many of those in that audience had actually helped crucify Christ. So the message was directed to them and meant something more to them, than it may mean to us today. Phillip was directed to the Ethiopian eunich. Cornelius symbolizing the inclusion of the Gentiles and thus all people. The conversion of Paul was incredible and unique to say the least. And then Lydia, whose heart the Lord opened to believe. In fact, the message was taken to each one of these converts and it was God's work. It was God orchestrating things and using people to accomplish His task.

Then, changing gears, the letters written to the believers in Rome, Corinth, Galatia, Ephesus, Phillipi, Colosse, Thessalonica, personal instruction to Timothy, Titus, & Philemon, instructions to the Hebrew believers, Peters words to scattered believers, Jude's letter, and then John's book of Revelation - all had an intended audience, and all speak in many ways to us across time. But what we do not have is a record of the messages preached to these people, or how God orchestrated their conversions and how these churches grew. We can only rightly infer that the motion of Acts continued with God meeting people where they were. What about today?

If God is not willing that any should perish, and if anyone who seeks finds, and if God meets people where they are, I begin to wonder why I don't really get it sometimes? Maybe I'm not really seeking, and maybe I'm not willing to understand where I am. In the past months, I've come to understand Paul's statement about no good thing being in his flesh all too well. And quite frankly, I often don't want reminded of where I've been, and what I deal with. And there's almost a sweet bliss of denial that can sweep over and make me think more of myself than is true.

However, in the precious moments that I have had a clearer vision of Reality, thankfulness for Christ comes automatically, I can truly love other people when I see Reality, thankfulness for merely being born into God's purpose comes automatically. Unfortunately, the clouds return too soon. Thank God the memory of the vision is motivating - because that Life is worth anything and everything. It is the Pearl of Great Price. His vision, I am convinced is the key to unlocking a good life here, and is in itself a guarantee of the Life to come.

"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. Those whom I love I rebuke and discipline. So be earnest, and repent. 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." Revelation 3:18-21