Memorize & Ponder for Sunday Nov 23, 2014

Throughout 2014, the Christian community at Brentwood Presbyterian Church is getting to know Jesus, the Christ, in a refreshing and transformative way.  We invite you to listen for what the Spirit is saying in the text, then question how those insights might change the ways you see things and act in the world.  Share your thoughts during the week on the meaning the Spirit creates for you in this text by posting a comment on our website – brentwoodpc.ca.

A Provocative Pondering

Let us hold fast to the confession of our hope without wavering, for he who has promised is faithful.  And let us provoke one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together … (Hebrews 10:23-25a)

If I was into bumper stickers (which I’m not), there would be one on my car that says, “Jesus Rules!” Simplistic as it sounds, that’s the core affirmation of the Christian community. When people join the church, the key question they answer is, “Do you accept Jesus Christ as your Lord and Saviour?”

This language often sounds authoritarian and antiquated. But we we are affirming that this world is unfolding under the leadership of Jesus, the Christ or Messiah of the God who made a covenant with a particular people, Israel, to be his ambassadors and agents in this world.

What is important to remember is the kind of ruler Jesus has shown himself to be. He is humble, loving, collegial, generous, forgiving, and confident in his faith. That’s the kind of leadership we are called and enabled to emulate in the world.

The example of Jesus poses a fundamental critique of and challenge to much of the leadership being exercised in our world today, be it in the political, economic, or social spheres.

How can you imagine exercising the kind of leadership Jesus did in your communities? You all have that possibility.

And a reminder to invite your friends and neighbours to contribute socks to our community service project – Socks for Souls.