To live among God’s faithful people… Baptismal Covenant (part 1 of 5)
We love because he first loved us. 20 Those
who say, "I love God," and hate their brothers or sisters, are liars;
for those who do not love a brother or sister whom they have seen, cannot love
God whom they have not seen. 21 The commandment we have from him is
this: those who love God must love their brothers and sisters also. –1 John 4:19-21 (NRSV)
Receiving
the Water & the Word we are declared part of God’s family. In every family each member has a part to
play: chores to carry out, contributions
to make, times to be recognized and honored, and when in need—to be cared for
by other family members.
Living
in community takes trust, time and effort, lots of forgiveness, a certain
amount of toughness, advocating for yourself, listening to your siblings (as
well as the parental-types), and above all…grace and faith.
Talk to God about your experience in
God’s family. What are you
receiving? What are you giving? Where are you hurting…in need of the grace of
forgiveness and actions of reconciliation?
How are you being challenged to grow?
How are your gifts being used?
Many times the "theology of thank you" is the most important exercise of theological action there is. The challenge is to strike a healthy balance between "You've done a good/great/awesome job" and "We've got more to do." We could build the body, a stronger "fellowship of believers," by focusing on being grateful and forgiving, always seeking to put the most positive face on each interaction. Guide us by your grace, O Lord!
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