Reflect
As we reflect on our nation’s recent celebrations of independence and heritage, it’s an opportune moment to consider what truly defines power and strength. In a world that often equates power with financial success or military might, we’re called to examine a deeper, more profound source of power – one that stems from our relationship with God.
The concept of power takes on new meaning when viewed through a spiritual lens. It’s not about the ability to dominate or control but rather about the capacity to transform lives, including our own. This power doesn’t originate from our personal achievements or societal status but from our connection to the divine.
Consider the story of Jesus returning to his hometown. Despite performing miraculous deeds, he was met with skepticism and disbelief. People couldn’t reconcile the extraordinary power he demonstrated with the humble carpenter’s son they thought they knew. This account reminds us of an important truth: when God transforms our lives, there will always be those who try to hold us back – to keep us tethered to our past selves. But as followers of Christ, we’re not just called to embrace our new identity; we’re empowered and encouraged to recognize that we are made new in Him.
This transformation isn’t just for our benefit. Jesus didn’t just demonstrate his power; he shared it. He called his disciples together and gave them the authority to go out into the world, heal, cast out evil, and spread the message of repentance and faith. This passage serves as a powerful reminder that we, too, are called to be the hands and feet of Christ in the world.
Repent
But how do we access this power? It starts with a simple yet profound act: repentance. We must humble ourselves before God, acknowledging our shortcomings and seeking forgiveness. This act of humility is the switch that activates the power within us – not a power of our own making, but the power of the Holy Spirit working through us.
Act
Once this switch is flipped, we’re called to action. Our faith isn’t meant to be confined within the walls of a church building. We’re meant to be out in the world, meeting people where they are, offering encouragement, feeding the hungry, visiting the sick, and standing up for those who can’t speak for themselves. These are the true “deeds of power” – acts of love, compassion, and service that reflect the character of Christ.
Strengthen
It’s crucial to remember that this power isn’t about personal glory or recognition. It’s about being a conduit for God’s love and grace in the world. As the apostle Paul reminds us, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Our strength comes not from our abilities but from our faith in Jesus.
As we consider our roles as citizens of both earthly and heavenly kingdoms, we’re challenged to redefine what it means to be a “mighty nation.” True strength isn’t measured by economic indicators or military capabilities but by how we treat one another, especially the most vulnerable among us. We become truly powerful when we:
- Care for one another unconditionally
- Repent of our collected sins
- Give direction and support to every child as if they were our own
- Share the word of God without shame
- Treat each other as brothers and sisters
- Visit the sick and elderly
- Offer a helping hand to those in need
These actions, driven by the power of the Holy Spirit, strengthen us. They reflect Christ’s transformative power in our lives and our communities.
As we navigate the challenges of our time – economic uncertainties, social divisions, personal struggles – let’s remember that we have access to a power greater than any earthly force. We’re called to be more than passive recipients of this power; we’re meant to be active participants in God’s work of transformation in the world.
Challenge
Let’s challenge ourselves to be more intentional about using the power we’ve been given. Who can you encourage today? Who needs a helping hand or a listening ear? How can you be the hands and feet of Christ in your community?
Remember, the power switch is within you. It’s activated by humility, fueled by faith, and expressed through acts of love and service. As we embrace this true power, we transform our lives and become agents of change in the world around us.
Let’s be bearers of hope and unity in a chaotic and divided world. Let’s demonstrate through our actions what it truly means to be “one nation under God.” As we do, we’ll discover that the most profound deeds of power aren’t those that dominate or control but those that heal, uplift, and bring people together in the spirit of love and compassion.
May we go forth with renewed purpose, seeking wisdom from God the Father, striving to live in peace as exemplified by Jesus Christ, and allowing the Holy Spirit to guide our interactions. Let our lives be a testament to the transformative power of faith, hope, and love – the true measures of strength and power in God’s kingdom.