Looking Out For Others
Sermon
Sermons on the Second Readings
Series II, Cycle B
Being able to synthesize in such a way that harmony can be the outcome is among the many things the Apostle Paul does well. The often-pesky church at Corinth desperately needed such a skill, written and practiced in charity. To follow his inspired advice comes as a gift to all of us, 2,000 years ago or today.
The individualistic Christianity, largely the work of Protestants, has been and is both a bane and balm, for us. To do our own thing is commendable and perhaps essential but it can prove utterly destructive to those who cannot comprehend the diversity found in our faith. Think what great problems we have solved and yet left unsolved!
We are to look out for others, especially if we are more mature in the faith. However, this can be an open door to tragedy, unless we remember to keep a close eye on our imperfect lives. But Paul makes his point about as perfectly as it can be made. We walk away from it and discover Satan is staring us in the face.
Charity for one another is the way great and powerful congregations are built. It is also the way we as individuals become more than private disciples, ministering mostly to ourselves. The Pauline teaching does not disappoint unless we pay little real attention to it.
Focus
We are called spiritually to form others, as well as ourselves.
Body
1. Weak believers are always among us.
Even as we speak about the weakness of others, we are reminded of how weak we were initially in practicing the Christian faith. It seems to me we should be in a penitent mood every time we seek gently to correct others. They are where we were. But let's not be too quick to celebrate a permanent level of maturity. My experience is that even the saints from time to time fall from lofty and respected heights. The history of the church provides excellent examples. However, we do know those who went through such episodes became stronger. Even though they wept bitterly, as did Saint Peter, the powerful pain of it all enabled them not only to return to their former level but above it.
It is so important to practice what we preach before our weaker brothers and sisters. When can we ever say to them "don't do as I do, but do as I say"? The folly of lip service to the religion Christ gave to us is probably the most disastrous event in our lives in the long run. While this may sound harsh, pastors can be the most outlandishly guilty of all! We can preach tithing but do we tithe? We can preach praying constantly but do we do so? We can preach about daily study and pondering of the Holy Scriptures but do we practice this, except for Sunday preaching? We can preach about solid and ongoing relationships with other denominations but are we available to the pastor down the street?
For those content in their Christian living, it can be quite a jolt to learn there is a basic responsibility for others. We all know these lovely people, who are often prime movers or -- at least -- faithful to what they have been willing to accept. The proud and highly respected pastor or layperson may enjoy the attention and recognition so much he/she is unable to detect spiritual blindness. Some of us not only know such people but we have been there, haven't we? Experience teaches me there is a creative discontent in our lives that is not always welcome. We learn things we would just as soon not learn! Of course, we can all say we care for others but do we do so as the Holy Spirit has guided us?
There is what I call a grumbling syndrome among God's people. That can be at any level of the church or in any individual's life. Hopefully, this is a means for the spiritually strong to enable the weak to become more like the crucified and resurrected Lord. Sometimes, even the most devoted soul perceives negatives and perhaps actual defeat, only to learn joyously we have passed through a phase lifting all of us higher. These are times of thanksgiving for what the Holy Spirit has been able to accomplish. Be alert to them because they certainly do happen! To grumble is not a sin in my opinion, unless it becomes an unquenchable thirst that is never satisfied. Sometimes those who are weak need something new and different in their lives virtually on a daily basis. Perhaps the news media has aided and abetted this!
2. Liberty in thought and action is intended to benefit others.
Isn't this what the United States of America is about? In our idealism -- since the beginning -- we have sought to make this a guiding principle. Sure, we attempted to improve ourselves individually but in doing so we likewise -- at least at an idealistic level -- wanted the same opportunities for others. We have always been a melting pot and continue to be. While at first this may not seem to have a direct bearing on Paul's teaching; it shows the influence of a definite belief in human rights. Truly, our nation has been a beacon to millions! Our Puritan fathers and mothers may not have understood this at first but there were forces that made them bend.
Isn't it a glorious sight to watch others grow in the faith? That's especially true if we have been a part of it. Oh, I don't mean we can document it! Mostly, our contributions don't come about that way. How fortunate we are because that means we cannot brag about it! Some Christian's are truly a work of art, as they go about being formed in the likeness of Christ. Their independence and sometimes brashness eventually becomes a gift for the wider body of believers. As experimentation comes and goes, the Holy Spirit synchronizes, harmonizes, and sometimes formalizes. Precious and essential spiritual formation glows for all to see, that is, those who are attentive. "Life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness" are not necessarily secular terms.
The greats of our faith are those who have often reached out, creating high levels of frustration and more. They have also in some cases been those who have pulled back in order to bring others along that were weak in the faith. Perhaps the most notable personage is Pope John XXIII, who flung open the windows of the Catholic church but refused to abandon the revelation of the faith, as he understood it. While he has his critics, the Catholic church has never been the same and yet it is still the same! The widening and broadening of his pontificate made the Catholic church far more accessible to others, especially inquirers. Such beacons never made the mistake of Napoleon Bonaparte, who invaded Russia and moved too far from his supply lines!
The flow of religious and moral ideas across all lines is a major achievement for our time. To be sure, problems -- some of them enormous -- have been created. Yet, with the mind of Christ, rooted and grounded in the faith, we are able to discriminate among the uplifting and hurtful. In the cauldron of multicultural existence there is that momentous opportunity to grow more fully, totally, and completely into the likeness of Jesus Christ. Denominational lines often have come tumbling down. When they didn't, sometimes new forms for ministry were given birth. Shades of the Wesleys and the Church of England! So, let us give thanks for the wonders of our day and time, despite the very real potential for unimaginable holocausts. May the will of the Father be done!
3. We are to make a contribution to every life we touch.
Well, that sounds like a big order, doesn't it? There is a profound truth here that may not dawn on us until we are well along in years. Is it too much to expect? Definitely not, that is, if we seriously believe that all things are possible with God. As the Holy Spirit works through us, for us, and among us, each and every precious human being we touch can be benefited. In terms of prayerful extension many others can also be influenced for the good. To make a difference for good in another person's life is actually a reasonable expectation. To be flexible enough to enable others to see the Christ more completely is ministry, pure and simple.
Many of us -- if not all -- have wondered upon occasion about our positive presence. Not being able to sense growth in others tends to be a common experience. However, it is certainly true that when the most severe darkness comes, we are soon to witness the sun coming up. Perhaps for you that is not always the case, but frankly it has been true over and over again for me. Spiritual formation generally is not an easy matter. To move ahead of others and then be called to look back to their state and pick them up is not something many of us enjoy. After all, in our competitive world isn't it the American way to keep stretching ourselves and solidifying our positions? In spiritual dynamics we know this is not the way to go. The weak are to be treated with dignity and respect. God expects that of us!
Our prayers should be focused upon this very concept. We are to aid in forming others and not run away to some safe corner to sit in a rocking chair. Prayer remains the most powerful force in benefiting others. Of course, we are to keep in mind this may be a prelude to actual and open change. In others we set the table and before you know it, luscious food and drink appear to enhance our friends who are on the same pilgrimage. Being only a novice in spirituality, I do suspect the most telling battles of this world are fought in the prayers of righteous people. The prayers of the American people, as well as many others, have had to be colossal in their impact on history.
Some winsome people in my churches have worshiped most Sundays in the year and given generously of their money. As a pastor, when you ask about their prayer lives you hit a thud. It simply hasn't been developed! To participate in public worship and give our money are commendable. There is one more thing more commendable: prayer. Why? Because this is catching the ear of God and provides little or no statistical success. The success comes in relationship with the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Many have marveled at the prayers given by grandparents, parents, brothers/sisters, and others. While we have no overt proof in a scientific sense, how many of us were formed spiritually by them? Their contribution is more than we can repay, except in the obvious. We, too, can pray for those coming after us. They may or may not be relatives. Whoever they are, they need our prayers today and tomorrow.
4. Our lives are never lived in a vacuum.
Some appear to believe there is a space completely empty, except for them. Christianity is a relational faith. From the outset it assumed we would be in touch with others -- laughing, crying, or celebrating. Our Lord's visits to secret places for prayer never became permanent. It must likewise be true for us. To build fences and walls around ourselves not only excludes others, but we are also excluded and do not receive the benefits intended. It is not always easy to let other people into our lives and there may be good reasons. Perhaps you have let a person into your life and been used. Perhaps you have confided in someone, only to learn the confidence was broken.
We have records of hermits who lived isolated lives and rarely saw anyone. This can be something quite different! There are those who take vows and spend years in seclusion on behalf of the kingdom of God. It is an extraordinary person who can do this. For you and me, plus virtually everyone we know, such an experience and way of life is foreign. Let us not magnify these isolated ways of living and call them the epitome of practical spirituality. Of course, we must not vilify such men and women that truly and wholesomely live a life of poverty, chastity, and obedience. For the average Mr. Church (man or woman) we are aware of our spiritual vocation to aid in spiritually forming others. As we benefit others, we benefit ourselves. All disciples committed to the Christ have known this at some level.
Christ also died for weak believers! Just because we may have more maturity, does not mean the crucifixion was more for us and somehow we are favored in the Father's eyes. Those words at first may hit you as strange and even humorous but take a moment or longer to test your depths. By our works and apparent successful living, are we better off spiritually than others? Am I seriously my brother's (sister's) keeper? It is an old question posed well before the Christian era. Are congregations guilty of separating into the haves and the have-nots? Had the pastor best be working with the haves in order to save time and cut down on his/her frustrations? In our souls there are times for whatever reasons we know this happens. Pastors, for the most part, learn early that the institution must be maintained at the corner of 10th and Elm!
God's patience saves the day for most of us, sometimes quoting our passage from Saint Paul back to us. There is this responsibility to look out for others and it doesn't go away. Those who get on our cracked nerves also belong to the family. They may be weak and -- in our minds -- a waste of time but that does not make them less a part of the family. Are they spiritually underprivileged because they just don't have the smarts? That is a terribly arrogant question and yet it must be asked. We cannot go our merry way and extricate ourselves from that which is difficult, trying our patience to the limits. We are all sinners saved by the grace of God. In our precious salvation the Father is merciful to both the weak and strong.
Summary And Conclusion
Knowledge can, in the Pauline sense, be a burden to us and produce an arrogance that alienates our brothers and sisters. We are reminded that love builds up and, sooner or later, everyone benefits. This is frequently not the way the world views people and things. The more degrees and professional experience we have, the more spiritually fruitful we are. Who are we trying to mislead? Love is what carries the day in good times and bad times. There are times Ph.D.s must learn from those who have never been to college or perhaps not even graduated from high school. Of course, we must not discount the possibility of academia and piety being an integral part of the same person. To tout ones ignorance and immaturity in childish ways is not what Saint Paul had in mind!
Our friend, Paul, is a brilliant teacher. He explains and challenges by turns. To get in a full-fledged argument with him must have been a powerfully painful experience! He strikes at the heart of the problem frequently present in our faith in the past and present. We can hear him saying love is patient and kind. It is also not jealous or boastful. You and I may need to test the waters of our real maturity again. We may need to have the cobwebs cleared from our hearts, so we can once again feel and understand we are to look out for others. This is not optional! Our trespasses are forgiven as we forgive others their trespasses. Regardless of your leadership role in the life of the church, covenant with the Father to be the person Christ desires you to be, with whomever you find yourself.
The individualistic Christianity, largely the work of Protestants, has been and is both a bane and balm, for us. To do our own thing is commendable and perhaps essential but it can prove utterly destructive to those who cannot comprehend the diversity found in our faith. Think what great problems we have solved and yet left unsolved!
We are to look out for others, especially if we are more mature in the faith. However, this can be an open door to tragedy, unless we remember to keep a close eye on our imperfect lives. But Paul makes his point about as perfectly as it can be made. We walk away from it and discover Satan is staring us in the face.
Charity for one another is the way great and powerful congregations are built. It is also the way we as individuals become more than private disciples, ministering mostly to ourselves. The Pauline teaching does not disappoint unless we pay little real attention to it.
Focus
We are called spiritually to form others, as well as ourselves.
Body
1. Weak believers are always among us.
Even as we speak about the weakness of others, we are reminded of how weak we were initially in practicing the Christian faith. It seems to me we should be in a penitent mood every time we seek gently to correct others. They are where we were. But let's not be too quick to celebrate a permanent level of maturity. My experience is that even the saints from time to time fall from lofty and respected heights. The history of the church provides excellent examples. However, we do know those who went through such episodes became stronger. Even though they wept bitterly, as did Saint Peter, the powerful pain of it all enabled them not only to return to their former level but above it.
It is so important to practice what we preach before our weaker brothers and sisters. When can we ever say to them "don't do as I do, but do as I say"? The folly of lip service to the religion Christ gave to us is probably the most disastrous event in our lives in the long run. While this may sound harsh, pastors can be the most outlandishly guilty of all! We can preach tithing but do we tithe? We can preach praying constantly but do we do so? We can preach about daily study and pondering of the Holy Scriptures but do we practice this, except for Sunday preaching? We can preach about solid and ongoing relationships with other denominations but are we available to the pastor down the street?
For those content in their Christian living, it can be quite a jolt to learn there is a basic responsibility for others. We all know these lovely people, who are often prime movers or -- at least -- faithful to what they have been willing to accept. The proud and highly respected pastor or layperson may enjoy the attention and recognition so much he/she is unable to detect spiritual blindness. Some of us not only know such people but we have been there, haven't we? Experience teaches me there is a creative discontent in our lives that is not always welcome. We learn things we would just as soon not learn! Of course, we can all say we care for others but do we do so as the Holy Spirit has guided us?
There is what I call a grumbling syndrome among God's people. That can be at any level of the church or in any individual's life. Hopefully, this is a means for the spiritually strong to enable the weak to become more like the crucified and resurrected Lord. Sometimes, even the most devoted soul perceives negatives and perhaps actual defeat, only to learn joyously we have passed through a phase lifting all of us higher. These are times of thanksgiving for what the Holy Spirit has been able to accomplish. Be alert to them because they certainly do happen! To grumble is not a sin in my opinion, unless it becomes an unquenchable thirst that is never satisfied. Sometimes those who are weak need something new and different in their lives virtually on a daily basis. Perhaps the news media has aided and abetted this!
2. Liberty in thought and action is intended to benefit others.
Isn't this what the United States of America is about? In our idealism -- since the beginning -- we have sought to make this a guiding principle. Sure, we attempted to improve ourselves individually but in doing so we likewise -- at least at an idealistic level -- wanted the same opportunities for others. We have always been a melting pot and continue to be. While at first this may not seem to have a direct bearing on Paul's teaching; it shows the influence of a definite belief in human rights. Truly, our nation has been a beacon to millions! Our Puritan fathers and mothers may not have understood this at first but there were forces that made them bend.
Isn't it a glorious sight to watch others grow in the faith? That's especially true if we have been a part of it. Oh, I don't mean we can document it! Mostly, our contributions don't come about that way. How fortunate we are because that means we cannot brag about it! Some Christian's are truly a work of art, as they go about being formed in the likeness of Christ. Their independence and sometimes brashness eventually becomes a gift for the wider body of believers. As experimentation comes and goes, the Holy Spirit synchronizes, harmonizes, and sometimes formalizes. Precious and essential spiritual formation glows for all to see, that is, those who are attentive. "Life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness" are not necessarily secular terms.
The greats of our faith are those who have often reached out, creating high levels of frustration and more. They have also in some cases been those who have pulled back in order to bring others along that were weak in the faith. Perhaps the most notable personage is Pope John XXIII, who flung open the windows of the Catholic church but refused to abandon the revelation of the faith, as he understood it. While he has his critics, the Catholic church has never been the same and yet it is still the same! The widening and broadening of his pontificate made the Catholic church far more accessible to others, especially inquirers. Such beacons never made the mistake of Napoleon Bonaparte, who invaded Russia and moved too far from his supply lines!
The flow of religious and moral ideas across all lines is a major achievement for our time. To be sure, problems -- some of them enormous -- have been created. Yet, with the mind of Christ, rooted and grounded in the faith, we are able to discriminate among the uplifting and hurtful. In the cauldron of multicultural existence there is that momentous opportunity to grow more fully, totally, and completely into the likeness of Jesus Christ. Denominational lines often have come tumbling down. When they didn't, sometimes new forms for ministry were given birth. Shades of the Wesleys and the Church of England! So, let us give thanks for the wonders of our day and time, despite the very real potential for unimaginable holocausts. May the will of the Father be done!
3. We are to make a contribution to every life we touch.
Well, that sounds like a big order, doesn't it? There is a profound truth here that may not dawn on us until we are well along in years. Is it too much to expect? Definitely not, that is, if we seriously believe that all things are possible with God. As the Holy Spirit works through us, for us, and among us, each and every precious human being we touch can be benefited. In terms of prayerful extension many others can also be influenced for the good. To make a difference for good in another person's life is actually a reasonable expectation. To be flexible enough to enable others to see the Christ more completely is ministry, pure and simple.
Many of us -- if not all -- have wondered upon occasion about our positive presence. Not being able to sense growth in others tends to be a common experience. However, it is certainly true that when the most severe darkness comes, we are soon to witness the sun coming up. Perhaps for you that is not always the case, but frankly it has been true over and over again for me. Spiritual formation generally is not an easy matter. To move ahead of others and then be called to look back to their state and pick them up is not something many of us enjoy. After all, in our competitive world isn't it the American way to keep stretching ourselves and solidifying our positions? In spiritual dynamics we know this is not the way to go. The weak are to be treated with dignity and respect. God expects that of us!
Our prayers should be focused upon this very concept. We are to aid in forming others and not run away to some safe corner to sit in a rocking chair. Prayer remains the most powerful force in benefiting others. Of course, we are to keep in mind this may be a prelude to actual and open change. In others we set the table and before you know it, luscious food and drink appear to enhance our friends who are on the same pilgrimage. Being only a novice in spirituality, I do suspect the most telling battles of this world are fought in the prayers of righteous people. The prayers of the American people, as well as many others, have had to be colossal in their impact on history.
Some winsome people in my churches have worshiped most Sundays in the year and given generously of their money. As a pastor, when you ask about their prayer lives you hit a thud. It simply hasn't been developed! To participate in public worship and give our money are commendable. There is one more thing more commendable: prayer. Why? Because this is catching the ear of God and provides little or no statistical success. The success comes in relationship with the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Many have marveled at the prayers given by grandparents, parents, brothers/sisters, and others. While we have no overt proof in a scientific sense, how many of us were formed spiritually by them? Their contribution is more than we can repay, except in the obvious. We, too, can pray for those coming after us. They may or may not be relatives. Whoever they are, they need our prayers today and tomorrow.
4. Our lives are never lived in a vacuum.
Some appear to believe there is a space completely empty, except for them. Christianity is a relational faith. From the outset it assumed we would be in touch with others -- laughing, crying, or celebrating. Our Lord's visits to secret places for prayer never became permanent. It must likewise be true for us. To build fences and walls around ourselves not only excludes others, but we are also excluded and do not receive the benefits intended. It is not always easy to let other people into our lives and there may be good reasons. Perhaps you have let a person into your life and been used. Perhaps you have confided in someone, only to learn the confidence was broken.
We have records of hermits who lived isolated lives and rarely saw anyone. This can be something quite different! There are those who take vows and spend years in seclusion on behalf of the kingdom of God. It is an extraordinary person who can do this. For you and me, plus virtually everyone we know, such an experience and way of life is foreign. Let us not magnify these isolated ways of living and call them the epitome of practical spirituality. Of course, we must not vilify such men and women that truly and wholesomely live a life of poverty, chastity, and obedience. For the average Mr. Church (man or woman) we are aware of our spiritual vocation to aid in spiritually forming others. As we benefit others, we benefit ourselves. All disciples committed to the Christ have known this at some level.
Christ also died for weak believers! Just because we may have more maturity, does not mean the crucifixion was more for us and somehow we are favored in the Father's eyes. Those words at first may hit you as strange and even humorous but take a moment or longer to test your depths. By our works and apparent successful living, are we better off spiritually than others? Am I seriously my brother's (sister's) keeper? It is an old question posed well before the Christian era. Are congregations guilty of separating into the haves and the have-nots? Had the pastor best be working with the haves in order to save time and cut down on his/her frustrations? In our souls there are times for whatever reasons we know this happens. Pastors, for the most part, learn early that the institution must be maintained at the corner of 10th and Elm!
God's patience saves the day for most of us, sometimes quoting our passage from Saint Paul back to us. There is this responsibility to look out for others and it doesn't go away. Those who get on our cracked nerves also belong to the family. They may be weak and -- in our minds -- a waste of time but that does not make them less a part of the family. Are they spiritually underprivileged because they just don't have the smarts? That is a terribly arrogant question and yet it must be asked. We cannot go our merry way and extricate ourselves from that which is difficult, trying our patience to the limits. We are all sinners saved by the grace of God. In our precious salvation the Father is merciful to both the weak and strong.
Summary And Conclusion
Knowledge can, in the Pauline sense, be a burden to us and produce an arrogance that alienates our brothers and sisters. We are reminded that love builds up and, sooner or later, everyone benefits. This is frequently not the way the world views people and things. The more degrees and professional experience we have, the more spiritually fruitful we are. Who are we trying to mislead? Love is what carries the day in good times and bad times. There are times Ph.D.s must learn from those who have never been to college or perhaps not even graduated from high school. Of course, we must not discount the possibility of academia and piety being an integral part of the same person. To tout ones ignorance and immaturity in childish ways is not what Saint Paul had in mind!
Our friend, Paul, is a brilliant teacher. He explains and challenges by turns. To get in a full-fledged argument with him must have been a powerfully painful experience! He strikes at the heart of the problem frequently present in our faith in the past and present. We can hear him saying love is patient and kind. It is also not jealous or boastful. You and I may need to test the waters of our real maturity again. We may need to have the cobwebs cleared from our hearts, so we can once again feel and understand we are to look out for others. This is not optional! Our trespasses are forgiven as we forgive others their trespasses. Regardless of your leadership role in the life of the church, covenant with the Father to be the person Christ desires you to be, with whomever you find yourself.
