In One Ear; Out the Other

Monday, May 5, 2014

Have you ever “caught” yourself?  I have! 

Here’s what I mean; I have read and agreed-with God’s Word, but then my actions fell far short of what I knew to be God’s will.  I let the Word go in one ear and out the other.

The Psalmist knew God’s will, and heeded it, did what it said.  He wanted his life to match what his lips had said.  He was a hearer AND doer of the Word of God.

A preacher friend of mine who is the lead pastor at a large church asked the question of his congregation:  Are you a fan or follower of Jesus Christ?  He went on to make a strong point that there are many members of churches who are great fans, but do not follow.  They agree with their lips that “Jesus is Lord” but you cannot tell that from the way their lives are lived out.

For instance – we’ve mentioned often that in the United Methodist Church we mark our entry into the church with baptism and profession of faith, and with 5 promises:

Prayers, Presence, Gifts, Service and Witness

When it comes to lip and life matching-up there are several of those that are not easily seen from the outside.  It’s hard to know if someone is a praying person.  Service is often done quietly, so many don’t know what you’re doing.  Gifts are encouraged to be a “secret” thing, so that’s not high on the radar.  Presence is another thing altogether.  On any given Sunday most churches will only have half the membership there.  Is that following Christ?  Is it faithfulness to the promise of gathering?

Certainly the basic difference between being a fan or follower is commitment.  You may “follow” somebody on Facebook, or their daily blog, but that isn’t following like being a disciple.  It only requires reading and maybe occasionally giving some feedback remarks.  It takes little discipline or sacrifice to be that kind of follower. 

Being a follower of Jesus Christ requires both sacrifice and discipline….big time!

Jesus said, Don’t call me Lord…if that’s not who I am to you.

Today…for you

Are you a fan that lets the Word of God enter one ear and exit the other?

Or are you a follower of Christ…ready to do his will?

Good questions to answer!