When we applaud athletes or admire artists, we recognise the years of training and discipline involved in their accomplishments. Any worthwhile achievement demands learning, persistence, struggles and right focus. It is the same with our religious journey. One hears people speaking of Christian living as if it were only a matter of adhering to certain basic doctrines, or maintaining certain traditions. But right doctrines do not necessarily make one a better follower of Jesus Christ. While it is very important for us to know and understand our faith, it is vital for us to know how that faith enables and empowers us to live daily. We affirm Jesus as our Saviour. But what does he save us from and what does he save us for? When we say he saves us from eternal damnation we must also say he saves us from the living hell of arrogance and greed, of self-indulgence and self-worship, of contempt of others who share our space.
Jesus taught us "God loves the world," "God is a Heavenly Father" who listens to our prayers and is willing to provide, forgive and to heal. If we accept this we have to remember we are created in God's image and likeness and must bear love, forgiveness and care to others. We are co-workers in the Divine plan. It is instructive for us to note how often Jesus commanded his hearers to go and do something, to live out the parable he taught or the words he spoke. After telling the parable of the Good Samaritan, Jesus told the teacher of the Law, "Go and do likewise." After telling the parable of the rich fool who thought true happiness and fulfillment came from hoarding treasures, he said, "Sell your possessions and give to the poor." "Be dressed ready for service and keep your lamps burning...."(Luke l2:33,35) In the gospel according to John, Jesus washed his disciples' feet as a reminder that he came to serve and to show the extent of God's love.
After doing this, he said, "Now that I , your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another's feet." (John l3:l4 )The apostle Paul needed to correct misunderstandings of grace. Grace sets us free. Grace makes us amazed, wondering with joy and gratitude at God's acceptance of us. But Paul had to remind his fellow-believers that this new life in Christ must lead them to mastery of sin and the offering of parts of the body as instruments of righteousness. (Romans 6:ll-l4 ) The formation of Christian character according to our beliefs about God, and our understanding of sin, salvation and grace is a life-time journey, involving trials, frustrations, divine epiphanies and spiritual renewing. But led and strengthened by the Spirit, we will discover discipline makes us faithful disciples. Let our worship and our work be in harmony. Let our example reflect our trust in a God who has created us and has promised never to fail or forsake us.
Charles Wesley wrote in his hymn of consecration,: Forth in Thy name, O Lord, I go, My daily labour to pursue, Thee, only Thee, resolved to knowm. In all I think, or speak, or do.