Lectionary for 6/25/2008

Today's readings are Proverbs 31.10-31 ( http://www.gnpcb.org/esv/search/?q=Prov.+31.10-31 ) and John 21.1-25 ( http://www.gnpcb.org/esv/search/?q=John+21.1-25 ).

 

Today we see the disciples after the resurrection returning to their work.  Peter realized his responsibility to his family and his community so returned to his former way of life, which was honorable and just. 

 

How do we respond after Christian experiences which we would consider "mountaintop" or "valley" times?  Jesus has given each of us many vocations, callings, in our daily lives.  For instance, I have a vocation as a husband, as a father, as a neighbor, as a leader in my local church, as an employee, as a supervisor of other employees, as a citizen, and as many other things.  Almost everything I do is somehow related to one or more of these callings the Lord has placed upon me.  They aren't mutually exclusive (I'm law-abiding as an employee, citizen, and for the sake of all the people I try to model godliness for).  And in my various vocations, the Lord has given me, and all of us, standing orders of what to do.  All husbands, regardless of their source of income, their zip code, or hair style of preference, are called to love their wives, leading them and laying down their lives for them as Christ did for His Church.  But regardless of the mountaintop or valley we are or have experienced, we are to fulfill our callings.  Are you discouraged in life?  Love your wife.  Are you rejoicing?  Love your wife.  Are you worried about finances?  Love your wife.  Same response.

 

Peter goes back to work.  Several other disciples resume their lives and work as well.  Were they being disobedient to the Lord?  No.  But Jesus came to them and gave them revised directions.  What if they had returned to their business after Jesus sent them to do other work?  Then they would be disobedient.

 

The bottom line - take the work the Lord has put before you.  Do it with all your heart, to the best of your ability, and fulfill your calling before Christ.  Whatever that calling, it is noble.