18 August 2005

It would be very much like "Paul" to say "Let's press on" and so we will do so in 1 Corinthians 15.

What I am saying, brothers and sisters, is this: flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom, nor does the perishable inherit the imperishable. (1 Cor. 15:50)

After such long passages in the previous days, this seemed to be enough. I'm most drawn to the what it means to inherit something. Inheritance is a gift. I suppose you could argue that people can be coerced into giving a way an inheritance. But in the case of the Kingdom or Reign of God, it is already God's action to give it all to us. That is a part of the water of baptism. It is the entrance rite that reminds us of that promise that will abide with us and make a way for us along the many pathways of God's Reign. The Kingdom of God is ours. Nothing we do...none of the "hard flesh and blood work" we do helps us fall into that inheritance. It is ours. It is that promise that is the power to bring newness to life and to build a new character among God's people. Likewise, when we try to talk about the resurrection, we attempt to talk about its fullness in terms of things that do not last and things of which we have knowledge and, shall we say, some control. Well, what is promised is always more than what we know or have or control or want. All of those expectations we have that seem a bit precise and exact can fail us and they can disappoint. On the other hand, that which is part of God's promise - the Reign of God - will not disappoint...even when we are a disappointment to ourselves and to others. The promise will stand and its power for new life will be the never ending embrace that cannot be dismissed.

Connection: There are so many disappointments in our lives, it is enough to rejoice in the one certain event that is for us - the resurrection. That is, God's eternal promise to be on our side without a doubt. Let that lead the way for you today....it is an imperishable gift.

O Solid Rock, it can be so difficult for us to hold onto your promises. When we cannot hold on any longer and begin to fall away from your invitation to come and rest in you alone, we ask that your Spirit of New Life be the power that will sustain us and remind us of your love. Amen.