THE WORD 4 ev 1

Today’s reading is John 5 (click here for link)

Comparison between ministries that have a lot in common can be deadly. In the Gospels, we read that John the Baptist’s disciples were highly disturbed that Jesus’ disciples were outbaptizing them. They must have read some of the “new” theories of ministry expansion, because Jesus was clearly siphoning people out of their ministry, devastating their annual plan numbers. Jesus ministry was stealing away precious volunteers. Even Jesus’ disciples were concerned and threatened by someone who was not “one of them,” yet was casting out demons in Jesus’ name (Mark 9:38). And though others compared Jesus to the great prophets (Matt. 6:14), it would have been unhelpful for him to do so. He had to trust the Father explicitly for his mission, without measuring himself against prophets, kings or even angels (Heb. 1:5) No, Jesus did not compare himself to anyone else. He simply looked to what the Father was calling him to do-- march headlong into a place of abandonment and crucifixion – something God had asked of no one else.

Today Jesus reminds us in John 5, "I tell you the truth, the Son can do nothing by himself; he can do only what he sees his Father doing, because whatever the Father does the Son also does. For the Father loves the Son and shows him all he does.” By sheer grace, we are “in” Christ. God sees us as his sons and daughter, too! As we walk our faith, let us be reminded to look to the Father and all he does for us in grace through Jesus.

I find Jesus words above especially pointed for Epiphany. Our church is a growing multi-site congregation. We have 4 unique worship services every Sunday in 3 different locations (Pearland sanctuary, AFLC, Missouri City campus). In some ways, these services are becoming distinct communities with unique needs. We also have many and varied ministries, groups, organizations, and programs. Comparison is inevitable. But living in Christ means embracing the “oneness” we have in Him—we are one congregation/family in Christ, no matter how many locations. And as his children, the Father is doing amazing things among and through us—reaching the lost with salvation. That is a great work to be a part of no matter how we are involved or where we are involved in the Church. When we remember that we are “in” Christ and loved by the Father, our comparison can’t help but compel us to greater acts of sacrifice and loving encouragement—because wherever our resources go, they go to do the Father business.

Have a great day,
Pastor Aaron