January 25, 2015-Focus

1 Corinthians 7:29-31

I mean, brothers and sisters, the appointed time has grown short; from now on, let even those who have wives be as though they had none, 30and those who mourn as though they were not mourning, and those who rejoice as though they were not rejoicing, and those who buy as though they had no possessions, 31and those who deal with the world as though they had no dealings with it. For the present form of this world is passing away.

I don’t know of anyone who would say they like this last sentence, for the present form of this world is passing away…. Unless it means that we are going back to a past form. 

In the church of Corinth, the old was passing away.  The kingdom of God has been ushered in with Christ, and Paul is letting people know that the things we value in this world are not what we need to be focusing on—we need to focus on the kingdom, on kingdom living.  

It is harsh, and I want to say to all those married, do not live as though you don’t have a spouse… God has called you to this relationship, it is a vocation you need to tend to.  And if you are at a time of mourning mourn, etc.  Paul is saying that all these things will pass away, these are not forever things—til death do these all part.  Therefore, don’t neglect the things that are of the kingdom, focus on that which will not end, the love of Christ, and the kingdom of Christ—on earth as in heaven.

Does it sometimes take something harsh to refocus ourselves on what matters in the long run?  It isn’t uncommon when someone is seriously ill or “needs” something that promises are made, eyes are turned toward God.  But so often when we are through the peril, we turn right back to the path we were on before.  

Lent will be upon us soon, and this year at Ascension we are going to focus on discipleship practices—worship, prayer, study, encourage, invite, give and serve.  But you can start before Lent-nothing magic about that time.  Examine yourself with God, turn yourself toward God and truly assess life, this and the eternal life God has given.  Where is it that you need to turn more focus—prayer?  Worship? Give?  

Lord God, you reign on earth and in heaven.  Turn our eyes toward kingdom living, that it will be abundant as we live this life on earth as it will be in heaven.  Help us tend to the many vocations you have called us to, not to neglect them.  Lord, help me listen.  Amen.