February 15, 2008

The question I pulled out of the box actually read, “Do we still believe that the Sabbath is holy?”
I love ‘yes’ or ‘no’ questions.

The answer’s ‘yes.’ Next question?

I imagine there’s something more wanted in the answer though. Perhaps some disconnect between what we say we believe and how we actually act.

Maybe a better question would be, “Do Adventists still keep the Sabbath holy?”

Of course, the answer to that is also ‘yes’. But the answer is also ‘no’. Unfortunately many Christians who have accepted the Bible truth of Sabbath miss out on the blessing of Sabbath.

That’s a primary dilemma of life. We each are continually challenged with the disconnect between our behavior and our beliefs. I attended a lecture series this week on limiting high-risk behavior in teenagers. One of the sobering statistics presented was that information accounts for 1-2% of behavioral change.

The implications for discipleship are tremendous. Our denomination excels at clarifying Bible doctrine. But if change happens within the context of relationship, then we must become involved in the lives of those around us.

I guess I just shared two reflections. Choose one to do something about this week.

“Teach me to do your will, for you are my God. May your gracious Spirit lead me forward on a firm footing.” Psalm 143:10

With full commitment,
Pastor Steve