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Good Shepherd Lutheran Church Today's Frontline Devotion January 27, 2005 SUB-CONTRACTORS |
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Frontline Devotion for Thursday, January 27, 2005 By
Pastor Dave Sonnenberg
I was in Atlanta on Monday and Tuesday for a conference about the Church in the
Emerging Culture. It was a fascinating experience where I interacted with
people from all over the nation.
The leader, Len Sweet, is by far the most dynamic teacher I have ever come
across. He is challenging, insightful, and stirs up your imagination.
When you spend time with Len, your head is so full of ideas that you almost go
into brain overload.
Upon my return, I had to prepare for a discussion at church- specifically, on
some aspect of Martin Luther’s life or theology. Perhaps
Luther’s greatest insight was that all Christians, by virtue of their baptism,
are priests or ministers. In his mind, clergy were not any closer to God
than the laity- they simply had different roles.
We all are ministers- called to bring God’s goodness into the world and be
God’s representatives. As I pondered that point, I thought of something
Len said. Len reminded us that there are a lot of people who emphasize
that we are co-creators with God. But, “co” usually means equal
partnership, equal say, equal something or other. Len suggested a better
term which I agree with- “we are daily subcontractors for the Lord.”
Subcontractor. One who works for someone who’s calling the shots.
A subcontractor- one who’s called to play a part of something beyond
themselves- a piece of something much larger. A subcontractor- one who
follows directions and listens to the wishes of the head contractor. A
subcontractor- one who uses the gifts/tools that the contractor has given.
Using that image- I fully believe that I am a subcontractor for the Lord Jesus.
You are too. Use the tools that you’ve been given- this day and
all the days. Bring his blessings wherever you go.
Lord Jesus, you are the contractor of this world, yet we often forget. We
too often forget who we are. Remind us this day that we are your
sub-contractors- called to play a part in carrying out your plans. Open
our ears to listen. If you change plans- somehow find a way to communicate
that message with us. Open our ears to hear you calling us to new
challenges, new opportunities, or simply to reach out in ways we never dreamed
of. We exist to glorify and praise you- this day and all the days of our
life. Amen.
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All are welcome to join and share in our Devotional Ministry on the "Frontlines" of the world. Frontline Devotions are sent via email daily. Sign up by clicking on the box to the left. Pastor Dave welcomes feedback. Contact him at pastordave@goodshepherdonline.org. |
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