That at the name of Jesus, every knee should bow, in heaven and on the earth and under the earth, and every tongue should acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. (Philippians 2:10-11)
I love this verse. Each time I’ve found myself reciting it, it’s served as a reminder of a simple truth: everything is still under the power and authority of Jesus Christ. What’s perhaps most reassuring is the peace that comes when we hear the name Jesus; the warmth that fills your heart and tempers the unease or fear of the challenge ahead. In essence, He says, “everything will be okay with me.”
Admittedly, I’ve resorted to that simple truth at times to avoid addressing or confronting the inevitable trials that life can bring. And sometimes, we’re tempted to discount hard truths and dilemmas around us, believing that it’s above our limited capacity to fix and ultimately, God is the One to do so.
In this season of Lent, and especially in this time of uncertainty, I’ve been reminded that we are each co-laborers with God: in forging peace; in meeting with compassion the uncomfortable realities that inequity and division can stir; in trading judgement for tolerance; and in honoring each other’s humanity with decency as we regard our own. This is no small task as we confront many of today’s challenges, but as our scripture reading reminds us, the truth of hearts is ultimately our saving grace.
Roslenn Richardson
Appointed readings for today:
