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As we discussed this past Sunday during our 1st Sunday Conversation, Jesus has this way of saying things that are shocking and surprising. As we read through the Beatitudes, we see that Jesus is declaring the blessing of God on to all of the wrong people. Those who are spiritually-bankrupt are blessed by God? Those who mourn and who have suffered great loss are blessed by God? This is not what anyone would expect to hear.
The Scriptures are shocking!
However, the truth is that, if you are paying attention at all, the Scriptures will likely shock you at every turn. Think about it -- the one true God chooses to reveal Himself to the world through a small desert tribe in the middle of nowhere? That seems ridiculous! Of all gods, how could the god of that insignificant tribe be the one true God? This story is not what anyone would ever expect.
The Messiah is shocking!
And then, Jesus shows up. But the Savior and Redeemer of Israel does not show up as a Conquering Warrior, but instead as a baby born in a manger. And, instead of defeating the Romans, Jesus gets crucified by the Romans. Instead of a Roaring Lion, we get a Sacrificial Lamb.
This God is shocking!
Story after story in the Bible reveals a God we did not expect. Instead of a God of indifference, we get a God of love. Instead of a distant God, we get a God who draws near. Instead of a God who demands our servitude, we get a God who serves. And, on and on it goes…
And so, may we read these Scriptures with fresh eyes, not reading through our own filter, only seeing what we already believe. May we allow these Scriptures to surprise us. May they wake us up and shatter our expectations… to give us another surprising glimpse of who our God is.
May we walk in the Image of God this week!
Arnie
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