Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen. (Ephesians 3:20-21)
What is your emotional
impression of a tiger, an American bison, a great white shark, or even a skunk?
I know some people think they can approach wild animals and take a selfie, only to end up shocked when they wake up in a hospital. In a similar vein,
what’s your emotional perception of corporate, political, or social leaders
(like celebrities)? Again, you’re likely to be more profoundly aware of their
power if they use it against you. But if we approach the subject wisely and deal with reality, doesn’t the animal or person in question deserve respect based on what they can do (either positively or negatively) and not solely on our
experience of being gored, bitten, clawed, kicked, sprayed, or bullied? And would
it not be wise to learn from what has happened to us or to others in the past,
rather than repeatedly subject ourselves to their reaction to our foolishness?
Today’s passage seems to
fit this pattern. It doesn’t tell us to glorify God because He’s done something
glorious in the past ten seconds, and we feel awe. It’s not about getting a
selfie with God. It’s about recognizing what God can do, and showing
appropriate respect rather than getting ourselves gored, bitten, clawed,
kicked, sprayed or bullied before we even consider being a little cautious in
our approach.
As we pray about seeking
His face, this is a good word of warning. God is “not a tame Lion” any more
than a fluffy cow, a cute little bear, or a gangly deer at Yellowstone is a
photo opportunity. That being said, God is wiser than the animals and people
mentioned. Scripture shows that He tolerates
and even enjoys a little audacity from us. He wants us to show the courage to
approach Him, as long as we do it with respect for what He can do.
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