Reformation Lutheran Church

PASTOR’S PIECE

The final segment of the “Christmas Trilogy” (the cycle of seasons that include Advent, Christmas, and Epiphany), the season of Epiphany, is really about DISCOVERY. The Magi (wise men) who made their way from distant lands discovered the Savior of the world by following the Bethlehem star. We too, are on a journey of discovery as we seek to know Christ and make Christ known to others. That’s what the season of Epiphany is really all about. Those of us who, by definition, claim to be disciples of Jesus acknowledge that we, like the wise men following a star, have “not yet arrived” at our destination; that we are learners trying to comprehend strange words and unravel puzzling experiences following the “star” through the journey of faith.
         
Being a disciple is a process – not a destination. Disciples are people who take seriously the invitation of Jesus, who calls us to deeper discipleship, to a process of discovering, time and time again, who Jesus is and who we are in relationship to him. Being a “disciple” isn’t a moniker we proudly wear, like a billboard around our neck, but a “grace” that is continually renewed and celebrated. Luther suggests returning to our baptism daily, renewing God’s promise of a life transformed by his gracious presence, reinvigorating the mission we have been given to share Christ with others.

Jesus’ disciples were on hand as he taught large crowds. They also shared more intimate sessions with Jesus so he could explain the deeper meanings behind his words and deeds. The disciples slowly begin to learn – through experience, explanation, repetition – who Jesus is and the mission he’s embraced. Gradually they realize that Jesus’ mission is one that includes each and every one of them! By spending time with Jesus – slowly, oh so slowly -- they grow in their ability to trust and follow him. A lot of times they would take “one step forward and two steps backward”. Of course there were a few occasions when they were having a really good day and took “two steps forward”. At times they became discouraged, times when they got it all wrong, times when they wanted to hide behind a locked door and throw away the key. BUT – they didn’t quit. They’d literally “suck it up”, regroup, and keep on going. Being a disciple is like that, you know, and it requires perseverance.

What, then, does it mean for Reformation to be a “community of disciples”? It means cultivating a deeper relationship with Jesus – through renewed devotion to group study, prayer, and fellowship. (cf. Acts 2:42) When we – as leaders and as a congregation -- pursue the mind and heart of Christ in this way:
* we will discover Jesus all over again,
* we will realize that Jesus’ mission includes each and every one of us,
* we will find renewed energy and a strength we didn’t think possible,
* we will appreciate that God’s grace in Jesus’ is truly limitless.
It may require a little “chutzpah”, tenacity, and perseverance, but being a community of disciples is like that, you know. We may have to “suck it up” and just “jump in” – but I have a feeling it will be totally worth it! Join me as we learn, pray, and DISCOVER who we really are in Christ!

Pastor Barb