October 16

Jeremiah 28:1-29:32; 1 Timothy 1:1-20; Psalm 86:1-17; Proverbs 25:17

How do we respond to a culture that seems opposed to so many things that the gospel stands for?

A common stereotype of the church is that it is known far more for what it stands against than what it stands for. We are perceived as being hateful rather than representing our God of love. This struggle of knowing how to love our cities well has always been true of God’s people. Jeremiah sends a letter to those who were exiled from Jerusalem and tells them to "seek the peace and prosperity" of Babylon. Babylon was a nation that destroyed Jerusalem and kidnapped most of the country and yet Jeremiah tells the people to pursue what is good for the nation. Rather than being isolationists, they are to integrate themselves into the culture to be a source of goodness and grace. They are to actively love and serve their neighbors in a way that represents God well. They find themselves amid a sinful, pagan, idolatrous country but rather than slinking back into the shadows they are to shine forth for the glory of God. You may feel a similar sensation and God’s call for you would be the same. The darker the world gets the brighter our lights need to shine.

Part of the way we are called to represent God in our world is to speak the truth. That is the core message which Paul passes on to Timothy. As a leader and shepherd, he needs to speak truth and ensure that the church remains tethered to Jesus. This is our calling as well. The world seduces with distractions and temptations but none compare to Jesus. So, God sends us out into the world to be disciples who make disciples and to do so exactly where we are.

Father God, you love everyone. Help me to share the love I have received from you with others. Help me not to be concerned only with myself but the good of our city, state, country and world. Give me eyes to see ways I can love others today. Amen.

Question: What can you do to seek the peace and prosperity of where you live?