When we are truly open, we will be surprised by something in the encounter. And that surprise - that unique presence of God - can be called . . . holiness.
Robert J. Wicks from Living Simply in an Anxious World (pg. 51)
The Pharisees continue to question the beggar, "This man who opened your eyes - who do you say he is?" This miracle has caused much controversy and questioning, much examination and concern. Even the man's parents must face the inquisitors. We can identify with this man and his parents if we are willing to stand up and share our experience with Jesus. There will always be those who question and doubt.
Read John 9:17-34
[The beggar responds] "I don't know whether he is a sinner . . . but I do know this: I was blind, and now I can see!" John 9:25 NLT
When we encounter the Living Christ, we are changed from the inside; we are transformed. Christ puts a robe of righteousness around our shoulders and welcomes us into the family. Do we suddenly have all the answers? No, and we never will have all the answers. As followers of Christ our response must be to simply tell our faith-story.
Consider this!
The Pharisees continue to question the beggar, "This man who opened your eyes - who do you say he is?" This miracle has caused much controversy and questioning, much examination and concern. Even the man's parents must face the inquisitors. We can identify with this man and his parents if we are willing to stand up and share our experience with Jesus. There will always be those who question and doubt.
Read John 9:17-34
[The beggar responds] "I don't know whether he is a sinner . . . but I do know this: I was blind, and now I can see!" John 9:25 NLT
When we encounter the Living Christ, we are changed from the inside; we are transformed. Christ puts a robe of righteousness around our shoulders and welcomes us into the family. Do we suddenly have all the answers? No, and we never will have all the answers. As followers of Christ our response must be to simply tell our faith-story.
Consider this!
- Why was it important that the Pharisees shed doubt on the beggar's healing?
- Remember a time when your faith was challenged. What did you say or do?
- Tell your faith-story ~ it is the most meaningful tool for sharing the Gospel you have.
Holy One ~ The world denies You, attempts to minimize Your power. Sometimes the task to tell my story seems daunting ~does MY story really matter, how should I tell God's story? what if they mock me? what if they do not listen? Make my faith bold enough to stand and share my own God-story with another. Make me humble in the telling of Your Faithfulness and Grace. Amen. ~dho
All rights reserved ~ used with permission of the author
Copyright 2009 by Donna Oswalt
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