Disproportionate
We tend to resist this, don't we? We tend to think that the appropriate measured response is the most appropriate response. After all, no one really likes it when someone goes flying off the handle in over reaction to something, right? It seems to resonate with our idea of fairness and justice.
Oddly enough though, what scripture actually invites us to do is live a disproportionate life. Surprised by that? Generosity. Grace. All all disproportionate responses. Turning the other cheek, praying for your enemies, not returning evil for evil. That's disproportionate as well. Is the Bible actually inviting us to live and unfair and disproportionate life? Something to think about huh?
Living with grace and generosity, as Christ is for us. More challenging that we would like to admit at times. Not only can we be a bit disproportionate in our response to things that upset us, but sometimes we don't always appreciate what it means to live with genuine grace and generosity when it comes to the more regular patterns of life and interaction.
This is what Pastor Isaac invites us to reflect on this morning. If you would like to listen to the sermon again, or perhaps for the first time, you can access our sermon library here. Or, if you would like the live stream version, you can find that here.
Ephesians 5
NIV
1 Follow God’s example, therefore, as dearly loved children 2 and walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.
3 But among you there must not be even a hint of sexual immorality, or of any kind of impurity, or of greed, because these are improper for God’s holy people. 4 Nor should there be obscenity, foolish talk or coarse joking, which are out of place, but rather thanksgiving. 5 For of this you can be sure: No immoral, impure or greedy person—such a person is an idolater—has any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God. 6 Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of such things God’s wrath comes on those who are disobedient. 7 Therefore do not be partners with them.
8 For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light 9 (for the fruit of the light consists in all goodness, righteousness and truth) 10 and find out what pleases the Lord.