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Jesus not only had to confront the religious leaders, but also the political powers of his day. To be holy means to be made whole and set apart to do the will of God. Jesus taught us to be in the world so we may bring God’s good news to the world. There was a time that the church was here to teach us how to survive in the world. Now, people want the church to teach them how to live in the world. The power and authority of the civil and legal authorities, the values and more of our culture can overcome our religious or faith beliefs and practices. What are the voices, the thoughts, the noises of society that seek to drown out and even overcome our faith lives? Like Pilate, the world may ask us questions of faith, but even if we answered them, would there be understanding?
It is significant to understand that the thief’s name Barabbas literally means “the son of daddy.” Bar means “son of” and abba means “daddy.” Abba is what Jesus calls God. Jesus is also the son of daddy. The confusion of what it means to be the son of God the people follow is made very clear.
Thoughts to ponder:
How does the world often seek status and power?
How would Jesus’ words about greatness be understood by many in the world?
Jesus teaches his disciples, But the one who is greatest among you will be your servant. All who lift themselves up will be brought low. But all who make themselves low will be lifted up. (Matthew 23:11-12).
We are inundated by commercials telling us what we need to do or need to have to find life more abundantly.
More thoughts to ponder:
When has an event, or message you have received drowned out everything else?
What, or who created the noise? What did the noise say about who you are? About your value?
When has the message of grace been able to overcome the noise?
What did grace tell you about yourself and your value?
God’s love is what brings value to us and all people!
What noise are you needing to drown out?
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If this experience has raised questions or concerns and you would like to have further conversations, please email srpastor@doveofthedesert.com.
Stations of the Cross at Dove of the Desert UMC 