JR. Forasteros - April 6, 2014

The God of Nation

American Gods

We all love to feel like we belong to something. But belonging easily becomes an idol. When we assume God is on our side, supports our views and policies, we turn a good - belonging - into a god. We sanctify our group, become incapable of admitting that our tribes are as sinful as we are. The only way we can find life is to follow Jesus into the Kingdom of God, to embrace our status as resident aliens. To live as faithful pictures of Jesus, to serve as ambassadors for God.

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Is there a skill you’ve learned you’re really proud of? For me, it’s writing – that’s probably no surprise, right? I consider myself a really good writer. I have a book out, I sell articles. I work with other writers to edit and improve their works. I love it. 

I love putting words together to figure out what sounds best. 

Becoming a writer isn’t particularly glamorous. When people ask, “How do I become a better writer?” I always give them the same answer: read a lot and write a lot. 

Anyone who has a skill you’re really proud of (not a talent – something that comes more naturally but something you’ve worked to cultivate and hone) knows this is how it goes. It’s the “wax on, wax off” from the Karate Kid. To become an master requires practice that can seem boring, irrelevant, taxing. But it’s worth it. 

Let’s explore the legal codes of the Bible. We’ll discover that, much like other forms of practice, these laws were designed to shape us into a people who are masters of God’s way, people who not only embody God in the world but help others to learn to follow God’s way. Far from being irrelevant, taxing and dull, these legal codes are invitations for us to know God in a deeper way.

Join us Sunday as we learn how ancient legal codes can help us know our living God.

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