Out of the World.

When we start out we are of the world.

Our values and attitudes are shaped by our experiences in the world.
We are cynical, pragmatic, aggressive, materialistic, selfish.....

We assume that God will win by superior force and might, as people in the world win.

Many people project the ways of the world onto God calling Him mighty and powerful, King of Kings, conqueror, victorious, glorious.....

But we are in for a surprise.

God is in the still, small voice - the sound of sheer silence.

"'Not by might , nor by power, but by my spirit, says the Lord of hosts.'"  Zechariah 4:6b (NRSV)

"'for the Lord does not see as mortals see; they look on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart.'"  1 Samuel 16:7b (NRSV)

God is gentle.

God does not force us.

God is patient.

The ways of God are non-violent, forgiving, full of understanding and grace.

God does not punish and reward as the leaders of this world do.

God loves everyone and gives all another chance.

There is no condemnation, no damnation.

Only Love.

God calls us out of the world.


[Scripture quotations (marked NRSV) are taken from the New Revised Standard Version Bible, copyright 1989 by the Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the U.S.A., and are used by permission.  All rights reserved.]