And the Oscar Goes to...
Jesus is constantly turning the world on end. Last night was the Oscars. Hollywood insiders got together to recognize the best of the best in film and entertainment this past year. Everyone in the room, in their own way seeks fame and fortune. The entire evening is devoted to recognizing those who do well.
What Jesus does is backwards from that. He heals people. He casts out demons. He bring the dead to life. He performs remarkably. And he tells everyone - keep it to yourself. But in spite of His instructions word spreads. The Bible says, "He has done all things well."
It reminds me of two things.
1. The purpose of Jesus was greater than fame or fortune. It was bigger than recognition. It was more than a single act of healing or a gracious act of kindness. Jesus was on a mission to redeem humanity from our sin and he wouldn't let a little thing like popularity or vanity get in the way of that.
2. Jesus has done all things well.
It leads me to questions.
1. Why do I do what I do? Do I serve for the praise of men? Do I work for the pay involved? Is my life's work more about my own vanity or about fulfilling the purpose of God? In the end it's not about the spectacle or the legacy. It's about the faith and the Father who gave that faith to me. It's about His purpose fulfilled through me in this place.
2. Jesus does all things well. He's done a work in me and in you - and he did it well. What you received wasn't some kind of half-hearted healing or temporary solution to a permanent problem. You received an everlasting solution to a persistent problem. When God made you HE DID WELL. When Jesus remade you HE DID WELL. You are His masterpiece on display for the world to see.
You aren't the actor winning the award. You are the Oscar given for the glory of God and the good of His kingdom.
Recognize the work of Jesus in your life today - He has done all things well.
Created about 1 year ago
