June 25, 2025
Wednesday Blessings,
Last Sunday we heard the first of three readings from Galatians. The selection of text that Chris Wagner read contained the verse that is central to Living Waters' identity as a welcoming church:
28 There is no longer Jew or Greek, there is no longer slave or free, there is no longer male and female; for all of you are one in Christ Jesus.
Here is the summation of those words. Christ has broken down the divisions of separation. So I wonder, why are we not living this liberating truth? During my morning prayers I find myself crying to God, "why are your children building walls and drawing lines to separate your children?" Here I am encouraged by the Spirit to read on.
This Sunday we will hear these words from Paul, "For you were called to freedom, brothers and sisters; only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for self-indulgence, (b flesh) but through love become slaves to one another. 14 For the whole law is summed up in a single commandment, “You shall love your neighbor as yourself”, Gal. 5:13.
What an invitation of hospitality, an opportunity for transformation for all of us. As I've learned from our study and discussion of the Corinthian letters, Paul wraps up the dialogue and debate into a succinct call to live as God's beloved community, 25 If we live by the Spirit, let us also be guided by the Spirit. SO 26 Let us not become conceited, competing against one another, envying one another."
What does this mean for us today? "People who walk in step with and by the power of the Spirit will see the needs of others and respond in helping ways."(1) May you walk in God's love knowing that you have been freed to witness that God's word of forgiveness, grace, and welcome is extended to everyone. Let us walk in faith and let us continue to make our table longer!
Grace and peace,
Pastor JJ
(1) - Roger Haug, God Pause from Luther Seminary June 25, 2025
