Awe or Apathy

Recently visiting Europe and it’s many churches I was reminded again of the sober reality that God has no grandchildren.  Richly beautiful cathedrals now attract crowds of admiring tourists rather than crowds of humble worshippers.  Walking among the tourists, admiring the powerful art displaying biblical themes, my heart grieved for the lost awe of and growing apathy for God so prevalent in our 21st century culture.

Recently visiting Europe and it’s many churches I was reminded again of the sober reality that God has no grandchildren.  Richly beautiful cathedrals now attract crowds of admiring tourists rather than crowds of humble worshippers.  Walking among the tourists, admiring the powerful art displaying biblical themes, my heart grieved for the lost awe of and growing apathy for God so prevalent in our 21st century culture.

Every historical fresco and tapestry shouted God’s central role in human life of their times.  Bible stories in magnificent art communicate God’s involvement in human history.  Government and kings bowed to the Eternal God.  Were there abuses of that central role of religion? Did the same siren of power overcome those who were to shepherd the sheep of God? Absolutely.  However, in reaction to those abuses have we simply erased God from His central and rightful place? How many modern tourists could even identify the biblical characters so artfully presented?

What can I do with this reality? I cannot change others, my call must be to better reflect His central and sovereign rule in my life.  How can my 21st century life and yours call those we meet daily to put Him first?  The lyrics of the song, "I then shall live," highlight  ways to let our lives speak to others of unseen realities that they too might become children of God. Might our lives become today’s stained glass windows reflecting His beauty.

I then shall live as one who’s been forgiven.
I’ll walk with joy to know my debts are paid.
I know my name is clear before my Father;
I am His child and I am not afraid.
So, greatly pardoned, I’ll forgive my brother;
The law of love I gladly will obey.

I then shall live as one who’s learned compassion.
I’ve been so loved, that I’ll risk loving too.
I know how fear builds walls instead of bridges;
I’ll dare to see another’s point of view.
And when relationships demand commitment,
Then I’ll be there to care and follow through.

Your Kingdom come around and through and in me;
Your power and glory, let them shine through me.
Your Hallowed Name, O may I bear with honor,
And may Your living Kingdom come in me.
The Bread of Life, O may I share with honor,
And may You feed a hungry world through me.

Amen, Amen, Amen