Look at the Evidence: What did You DO Today?

OK--well as I threatened, here is part three from this weeks message at church. I can't tell you how long it has been since a message has caused me to consider some of its components this deep into the week.

Maybe I'm wearing out my welcome--but these ideas have really resonated with me this week and while there is nothing new here, maybe I just needed to hear these three ideas grouped together at exactly this moment in my life.

This one still revolves around Ephesians 2:10

For we are his workmanship, having been created in Christ Jesus for good works that God prepared beforehand so we may do them. - NET Bible

It is this whole concept of works. And I know whole denominations have been established on the basis of works, or grace or whatever. Those who know me, know that I am all about grace and the undeserved gift we have been given. This I always thought was not to minimize works--but to help understand their place in the bigger architecture.

But with respect to the whole discussion of works, what I heard this week really put it into perspective for me. And based on Eph 2:10, I know that God has prepared works for me to do and for each Christ follower to do. But--here is the thought piece:

My works are not the means for me to get into heaven, but they could be the vehicle for someone else.

So isn't that what it's all about? The evidence of our salvation is in the effort we make to help others find their way while care for our brothers and sisters.

Hmmmm! It all seems so clear now.

Kinda like the salt in the box--if we're not out there spicing up life, we don't really matter because we are not contributing. We are lot's of unrealized potential. And that's not what we were created to do. Our reputation is built on what others see us doing, not what we necessarily say we are.

Hold fast to the grace we have received, but now it is time to get our hands, and feet, and face dirty!