Sunday, March 18, 2012
Fourth Sunday of Lent
John 3:16, 21
Jesus said to Nicodemus, “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life … But whoever lives the truth comes to the light, so that his works may be clearly seen as done in God.”
Scott Burns, my favorite personal economist, lives in Dripping Springs, Texas. One subdivision away, we have friends who live in a home which thrives on what can only be called an economy of grace.
We met twenty years ago while they were students and we were campus ministers. Now they work with software and kidware – a good job and five children, all home schooled and learning the ropes of civility, respect, fulfillment and forgiveness. Like many of us, they want more of what they try to model and teach to be available outside their home.
Their oldest daughter is thirteen. She played a Chopin Nocturne for us before we left. Perhaps she was a little self-conscious, but perhaps not. She smiled, she played, she made us happy. She wasn’t sure just which Nocturne it was, and she didn’t seem to need the spotlight. But the light did not blind her while she was in it.
“Come to the light so your works may be clearly seen as done in God.” Jesus’ words can always be prefaced with, “Do not be afraid.” When grace abounds, when God’s covenant is complete and absolute, I am safe to come and play, come and speak my mind, come and worship. God’s expectations are high, his applause is fierce, and his pride in me supplants any need I have for my own.
This economy works.
Father, when we hear those wonderful words, “Well done, good and faithful servant,” we have all we need. You love us with your touch and your words and your faithfulness, which we can strive for in ourselves and be so grateful for in you. Thank you, Lord.
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