Saturday after Invocavit, 3/10/01

1 Timothy 4: 13 Until I come, devote yourself to the public reading of Scripture, to preaching and to teaching. --NIV

In the name of the One about Whom we read, preach, and teach, amen.

Forest Gump liked to say, "Stupid is as stupid does." Well, Christian is as Christian does. If we are devoted to the public reading of Scripture, to preaching and to teaching, we will know the Scriptures and be built up by them. Often times we feel separated from God, or that we lack faith, understanding, and knowledge. Yet, we often fail to partake of the very things that increase our faith, give understanding and knowledge, and bring us closer to God.

God is present for us in His word and in the sacraments. He is eager to give us a rich measure of His Holy Spirit through the word and sacraments, so that we will be in Him and He in us. As Christians who have saving faith the choice is ours. Which will it be, "Stupid is as stupid does," or "Christian is as Christian does?" Stupid is the person who turns away from the word and sacraments; he is vulnerable. But the person who fellowships with God in His word and the sacraments is truly wise unto salvation. He is, simply said, a Christian. Amen.

Prayer: Lord save us from our foolish and lazy nature. Cause Your Holy Spirit to spark in us such a strong hunger for Your fellowship that we remain so immersed in Your word and sacraments that nothing can ever steel us away from You. We ask this in Jesus name, amen. ____________________________________________