september 23rd - Reflection

Acts 13:32-41 (NRSV)
Through Jesus forgiveness is proclaimed
And we bring you the good news that what God promised to our ancestors he has fulfilled for us, their children, by raising Jesus; as also it is written in the second psalm,
'You are my Son;
today I have begotten you.'
As to his raising him from the dead, no more to return to corruption, he has spoken in this way,
'I will give you the holy promises made to David.'
Therefore he has also said in another psalm,
'You will not let your Holy One experience corruption.'

For David, after he had served the purpose of God in his own generation, died, was laid beside his ancestors, and experienced corruption; but he whom God raised up experienced no corruption. Let it be known to you therefore, my brothers, that through this man forgiveness of sins is proclaimed to you; by this Jesus everyone who believes is set free from all those sins from which you could not be freed by the law of Moses. Beware, therefore, that what the prophets said does not happen to you:
'Look, you scoffers!

Be amazed and perish,
for in your days I am doing a work,
a work that you will never believe, even if someone tells you.'"

Reflection
Being raised up. Jesus was raised up in his baptism. In his baptism, Jesus was recognized as the Son of God. Just as David was raised up as a man when he became king, Jesus at his baptism became our everlasting King.

Jesus, just as David and you and I are raised up in our baptism for a purpose. A purpose that God has planned for each of us. David, to be King of Israel and God's son. Jesus, raised to minister, teach, love, heal, suffer and die on the cross for our sin. And you or I with a purpose God has given us, unique to each, but still common in the love Jesus has shown us and the power and gifts bestowed upon us by the Holy Spirit.

Yet we look forward to that next raising up when the promise will be fulfilled and we will raise from the dead and unite with Jesus the forerunner and King. Not only will that cause us to be amazed then, but we can already be amazed now that we have been set free from sin and raised up ready to live and love God and our neighbor in the joy of active love. Thanks be to God!

Prayer
Thank you for Jesus, for Baptism and Holy Communion, all reminders of how you have raised each one of us, here and now. May we all live your call each day... today... tomorrow... and into eternity. --- Amen