One
of the many delightful things about living in Japan when I was in high school
was experiencing a variety of customs and cultural practices that differed from
those with which I had grown up. And one
of the most grace-filled was the custom of bringing a small gift, a
“present-o”, to someone or to a family who had invited us over to their home
for tea or a meal. Sort of like an advance "thank you" note! Of course, when we
hosted a Japanese family, the favor was returned with great flair.
God often turns human customs upside down,
and we see that in today’s Scripture passage.
God hosts us with a gracious invitation to share life with Him, and yet
it is the Spirit of God – and not us – who gives the gifts in that encounter. Talk about amazing grace!
Over the next few weeks, I'll be basing worship on 1 Corinthians 12 and 13 with this Sunday's (Jan. 20th) message focused on 1 Cor. 12:1-11. As we consider Paul's treatment of Spiritual gifts (followed by his exposition on "love" in Ch. 13), I want to begin by underscoring love for the Giver over and against even a sincere appreciation for the Giver's gifts.
If you want to contribute to this sermon, please consider e-mailing me or commenting on this post. I'm looking for reflections that shed light on this dynamic of love for the giver, as opposed to the gifts.
Peace in Christ,
Steve
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