Tuesday, December 7, 2010

Babylon

The books of Daniel and Revelation tell us of things yet to come. It is not much that is surprising given the history of devastation and war in our world. We are asked to be prepared by repenting of our sinful nature, believing in the love of God and salvation through Jesus, and living a life of service to others. All easy things to do. Except for the constant barrage of the anti- religious, self serving people who think they do no wrong, it is easy to live a God fearing life. Well, except for the competition to live lavishly or even comfortably, it is easy to serve others. Also, the ridicule from the people who think Jesus is a fable, and the teasers who think going to church is for nerds, it gets a little tense to keep up good habits. And in addition, there are those who are judgemental and pious that make us feel unworthy. Daniel reminds us that we are holy vessels. Those who defile us are messing with a powerful God that will bring them down. I have seen this and yet they still don't get the picture and try to blame others. I have done it myself. So, does God punish us? Can love punish? Do we punish ourselves. The answer is easy. Our response to any situation is far more important than the actual event. Go therefore before the cloud of witnesses.