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Wednesday, September 08, 2004
One of my favorite ways to read the Bible devotionally is simply to read Eugene Peterson's "The Message." Every now and then I've found some awkward translations in it, but by and large I really enjoy the tone and style. In fact, I really like the "Remix" version best because it has the corresponding verses in the margin (which the original doesn't have).
Anyway, grab your favorite translation and read along with Matthew 5: 13-16 here,
"Let me tell you why you are here. You're here to be salt-seasoning that brings out the God-flavors of this earth. If you lose your saltiness, how will people taste godliness? You've lost your usefulness and will end up in the garbage.
Here's another way to put it: You're here to be light, bringing out the God-colors in the world. God is not a secret to be kept. We're going public with this, as public as a city on a hill. If I make you light-bearers, you don't think I'm going to hide you under a bucket, do you? I'm putting you on a light stand. Now that I've put you there on a hilltop, on a light stand--shine! Keep open house. Be generous with your lives. By opening up to others, you'll prompt people to open up with God, this generous Father in heaven."
So, do you see why this version is more devotional in nature? Where are the similarities you see? The differences? I like to make comparisons and contrasts with The Message, and I really do enjoy the devotional type tone.
Anyway, just doing something different, using The Message's translation, while you're going about your day today, think about some specific ways you can bring out the "God-flavors" and "God-colors" of the earth/world by how you walk with Christ today. Or would you consider yourself to be one of those who lost their usefulness? If this is where you are at the moment, what action steps can you take to reverse that station?
Another thought for the day: Are you really open with God? What does that look like in 2004?
Journal prompt for today: Do you agree or disagree with the idea that if you "open up to others, you'll prompt people to open up with God?" Why?
Brent 4:05 AM
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