If you’ve ever had to say goodbye to someone, you treasure the last words spoken. You remember what was said. You hold on to those final words. For Lent in 2021, we are focusing on the last words of Jesus from the cross. What did he say? What does it mean for us? How do those words change us? This week, we hear a word of forgiveness from the cross. Jesus said of those who were executing him, “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.” (Luke 23:34)
*Note–This week the theme begins on Wednesday. Sunday through Tuesday are a follow up to Mission Sunday.
Today is Monday and we consider the mission God has given to us as His disciples.
Invocation
In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, Amen!
Word: Colossians 4:2-6
Continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving. At the same time, pray also for us, that God may open to us a door for the word, to declare the mystery of Christ, on account of which I am in prison— that I may make it clear, which is how I ought to speak.
Walk in wisdom toward outsiders, making the best use of the time. Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you ought to answer each person.
Meditation
Posture matters. Doctors believe that well over half of the American population suffers from poor posture that leads to long term negative health impacts such as neck and back pain and arthritis. Who knew something as simple as posture could have such profound effects on our overall health.
In Paul’s letter to the Colossians, he writes the Christians of that early church and tells them to be mindful of their posture. Not is the chiropractic sense but in the relational sense. He says, “walk in wisdom toward outsiders (non-Christians), making the best use of the time. Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt…”
What Paul is describing in those verses is the posture with which followers of Jesus Christ should take on. There is a district way Jesus followers walk, and talk, and interact with others. It is with a posture of humility and empathy. A posture of listening and preparedness. What Paul and all disciples have known from the beginning is that our posture matters.
“Missions is not the ‘ministry of choice’ for a few hyperactive Christians in the church. Missions is the purpose of the church.”
May we walk in the pattern and posture of Christ before others today.
Closing
God, our great Rescuer, you have always redeemed your people by grace. Would you see fit to use us on your mission? Would you send us to those who do not know you as we do? That l may know of your mercy and together call you our great Rescuer. In Jesus’ name, Amen.