This summer I joined the Riga 2 corps Bible Study in reading the book of Matthew. Yesterday I finished it. I love reading the Bible because I always learn something new or gain a different understanding of even familiar passages. Perspective has something to do with it. So, this time unintentionally, I think I read it from Jesus’ perspective of training His disciples. What better model for me to use to design our training program? Not necessarily the curriculum, but my relationship with the cadets and the whole mentoring plan. I love His teaching method – stories and questions. There is an overwhelming aspect to this, too. What a great responsibility I’ve been given which will have lasting impact on the future of PestiĊĦanas Armija. So, I decided the next thing I need to read is something from Paul, as he provided direction and ‘leadership training’ to the early Church. I started today with Thessalonians and then will move on to Timothy. Here’s what I read today:
1 Thess. 1: [4] For we know, brothers loved by God, that he has chosen you, [5] because our gospel came to you not simply with words, but also with power, with the Holy Spirit and with deep conviction. You know how we lived among you for your sake. [6] You became imitators of us and of the Lord; in spite of severe suffering, you welcomed the message with the joy given by the Holy Spirit.
1 Thess. 1: [4] For we know, brothers loved by God, that he has chosen you, [5] because our gospel came to you not simply with words, but also with power, with the Holy Spirit and with deep conviction. You know how we lived among you for your sake. [6] You became imitators of us and of the Lord; in spite of severe suffering, you welcomed the message with the joy given by the Holy Spirit.
So much to think about in that paragraph. My first thought was that my prayer would be that verse 5 would be true of me. I wonder what the people here think about my living here? Verse 6 is frightening in some ways – first that anyone would imitate me but what I was most impressed with was this thought of suffering. I have a sense that we will experience a lot of trouble as we prepare for training and during the program. It’s such a great opportunity for expanding the gospel in Latvia that there will be opposition. I have no idea where it will come from but I believe we (I) have to be prepared. I need my friends to pray for protection for me and those who have so willingly responded to God’s call in this way. Protection from what? I’ve been thinking about that today – attitudes, egos, discouragement, fear, an overwhelming sense of it all. But, mostly, I feel that we need protection from personal sin. Because this whole thing is dependent on a few individuals, we (I) need to be very aware of keeping my own life pure and my relationship with the Lord alive and growing. If you think about us – pray, please!
No comments:
Post a Comment