12 October 2013 - lift up your eyes
He replied, “Rather, blessed are those
who hear the word of God and observe it.”
Let us elevate our minds! The things that the world interprets as blessings are lesser things. If family is only something that exists on this level it isn't really so great. If it only indicates a link from one mass of matter to another with no reference to spirit it isn't a true blessing no matter what it implies in terms of law, reputation, and inheritence.
But it is designed to be more than that. It isn't just that Mary carries Jesus in her womb and nurses him at her breast. She is chosen by God. As Gabriel tells her, "Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God." God choses her and Mary responds with all that she is. She is able to say, "May it be done unto me according to your word." God empowers. He takes the initiative. Mary embraces and actively surrenders. Mary carries Jesus in her Spirit and offers herself to him completely. This is the love that is meant to define true family. It is not merely a flesh relationship. Or at least, it ought not be.
Let us elevate our minds to the truly important bonds we are designed to cherish. Our attitude can certainly exclude us from the blessings the LORD has for us. If we take a low earthly view of relationships we are likely to get caught up in rivalry and ultimately "violence" and the "shed of innocent blood", at least in terms of our intentions.
Let us elevate our minds to the New Jerusalem! There all relationships will have the unity of the Spirit. Let us prize Zion above all our joys. Then:
Light dawns for the just;
and gladness, for the upright of heart.
It gets better still:
And then, on that day,
the mountains shall drip new wine,
and the hills shall flow with milk;
And the channels of Judah
shall flow with water:
A fountain shall issue from the house of the LORD,
to water the Valley of Shittim.
Let us elevate our minds to taste the water of life that pours forth from Jesus Christ!
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