Name

This blog has been primarily a reflection of my life so far at seminary; for good reason, because it is a big part of my life right now as I desire to preach the Gospel and administer the sacraments. Just writing that makes me tremble. Who am I to seek after such a calling? What it is that compells me to seek this position?  Life is a precious gift from God, and to find a calling in life outside God’s primary calling in the sinner’s life brings excitement and joy. For one, the work of the Holy SPirit applies the work of the Father through His Son Jesus. There is something powerful in a name. Reminds me of the tv sit-com “Cheers” You want to to go where everyone knows your name.”  Of course it is special when someone calls us by our name, but when the Triune God calls your name it is a humbling and exceeding joy. Names confer identity whether we realize it or not, and they have an impact on us in far reaching ways. What a joy to know Our Heavenly Father sees us through His Son and imputes his righteouness to us- to all who call upon his name; the only name under heaven by which we must be saved. (Acts 4:12)

The semester is drawing nigh, and there is much to do to prepare for papers and finals. May God’s Word dwell richly within you if your at seminary this year, or if you are not. Remember the name above all names.

Mary or Martha?

This short passage of Scripture in Luke 10 desribes the action of Mary and Martha. It is a familiar story that shows that mary desired to be at the feet of Jesus, where Martha was busy getting things ready for the time spent together. When we invite people over to our homes ( which is not as often as I should) there is the irresistable tendency to get the house looking good before guests come over.  i don’t know what Martha was thinking about that, but the Scripture tells us she was distracted by many things. I am not very hospitable because i don’t want friends to see how disorganized I am, and I end up worrying too much about that rather than spending time with friends.

Mary on the other hand takes time to be at Jesus’ feet. In our pragmatic culture, Mary seems to “do” nothing, where Martha is doing all the work. it’s easy to look down on someone who is lazy and doesn’t work or show proper ettiquite. Yet, we need to remember that Mary did what was best, and Jesus commended her for attending to what is most imporatant: being at the feet of her Lord and Savior.

I’ve felt like a Martha at times, and I also realize that I haven’t got much done either, going through the motions yet still wasting time that God has given me.  being a good steward of time is vital, and it will often show up in idol ( or idle) worship. May the Gospel penetrate a stubborn heart and recognize what is truly important– glorifying and enjoying our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.