Contemplative Bible Reading

Ephesians 2:10 (New Living Translation)

10 For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago.

Paul is writing to a group of Christians long ago in a place called Ephesus. To many folks, being a Christian means “don’t do this, don’t do that, don’t have any fun.” I am sorry to write that the incorrect idea comes from poor teaching and preaching by Christians. It certainly doesn’t come from the Bible.

What does it mean to live as a Christian? Read this verse. Long ago, God created mankind to do good things. Mankind sort of messed up the situation (well, we actually really messed it up). God, however, gave us a big second chance or third chance or however many chances. God created us again in Christ Jesus.

Okay, now what? Having been created again in Christ Jesus, we can go out and do all those good things God planned for us. Now, who is opposed to doing good things? Well, anyone want to raise their hand on this one? Sigh. Still waiting.

Sure, we can argue that doing this is good or doing that is good-er or something. And then we can argue about what standard or reference or guide we will use to define “good.” Let’s look to the Bible.

Jesus said kind words to some people. I can say a kind word or two to the folks behind the counter at Starbucks this morning and at the gas station tomorrow and at the grocery store next week and …

Jesus provided food to folks who didn’t have any. Well, I can certainly do that. Jesus… well, there are lots of examples of what Jesus did—good things planned by God long ago. I guess I could get started now, and maybe I could even tell non-Christians about this little-know part of being a Christian.