The Blue Church

A few weeks ago in a devotional I referred to the often repeated statement, “We can discuss anything but religion and politics.” The saying hopes to keep peace in a family, workplace, or even a picnic.

In the very first chapter of the very first book of the Bible, we are given an identity. We are creatures made “in the image of God.” Later in the story we discover that our problems began with the temptation to “be like God” (Genesis 3:5).

Soldiers need more than just training and logistical support. They are in need of good morale as well. All of the equipment and expertise in the world does not erase the fear of battle and create confidence.

As we approach our first regathering as a church, it’s good to reflect on where we are and why all of this is happening the way it is. Let’s review how our congregation has dealt with this disease.

It just so happens that. . .

*Cliff Swallows complete their 6,000 mile return flight (from Argentina) to San Juan Capistrano on or about March 19th every year.
*Fireflies find and attract mates by using matching light flashes.
*Canada Geese make thirteen distinct calls, not just random honks.

Someone in our church family has pointed out how the two most recent national crises were both related to breathing. In the midst of fighting the Corona Virus, which attacks the lungs, we witnessed a man die at the hands of an officer, all the while pleading, “I can’t breathe.”

To some it may sound blasphemous to say that God serves us. We serve Him, and not the other way around. But the Bible says that. . .

Of all the things we need to work on, our view of God should be the priority. What God is like and what He’s about impact everything in our life of faith. Faith itself is only as good as the God in whom it rests. So what happens when we have an inadequate view of Him?

These words are an easily missed phrase in our traditional Christmas reading from Matthew 2. When the Magi had come, they asked, “Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his star in the east and we have come to worship him.”