“Set the world right;
Do what’s best-
as above, so below.” Matthew 6:10 (The Message)
“So many bad things have been done in the name of God. How do we know we are doing the right thing?” a friend asked during a Bible study. This is such a good question and one that many of us have struggled with. I have been involved in ministries of the church only to look back on them later and feel embarrassed by what I did in the name of Jesus. Maybe you have as well.
I also know there have been times when I have been so paralyzed by the fear of messing up that I have turned away and chosen not to get involved.
In this part of the Lord’s prayer Jesus is inviting God to be present and working here on Earth. One way God is present in the world is through God’s people – you and me. It won’t be perfect. We will make mistakes. But the more we can listen for and welcome God’s grace into our daily lives, showing up with love, the more often we will be able to be a part of bringing God’s kingdom here on earth. And thankfully Jesus’ life here gave us a beautiful blueprint to follow.
I hope as I look back on my life it will bring contentment, remembering the times when I tried to listen and follow Jesus hoping to “set the world right” at least a little bit. In the meantime I’m sure I will mess up frequently, but more importantly I will continue to try to be faithful.
During this season of Lent, what is God inviting you to do (or not do) in order to “set the world right”?
Our Father in Heaven,
Set the world right- Do what’s best as above, so below. We want to be your disciples. AMEN
some comfort and joy 