Ordinary Time: Thursday, September 21, 2006

Old Testament Lesson

Job 28:1-28

We see here in Job that wisdom is to be searched for; and it will not be found upon the earth. Wisdom is found only in God. There is a difference between knowledge and wisdom. Lots of people know lots of things. But, very few people are wise. Wisdom is not about being good at your job; it is not about knowing where to find a good sale; it is not about knowing how to build something.

Wisdom is about sight. It is about seeing. It is about seeing things that correct way. It is about seeing things the way God would have you to see. Wisdom tells you that some one's worth is not their bank account, but rather there worth comes from being a child of God. Wisdom tells you that that the stuff of life is not as important as the stuff of heaven. Wisdom tells you that it is in the simple things of life; a child's smile, a warm word, a beautiful sunset, a loving family, a faithful church; in these things we find true contentment, and true joy. The world does not teach us that. Wisdom does. And wisdom comes only from God.

New Testament Lesson

Acts 16:25-40

We see wisdom in this passage. When the earthquake came, Paul and Silas could have left, but the did not. They knew that there was a purpose for them even being in jail. That purpose was that the jailer and his family may come to know Jesus as Lord. There is a purpose in everything. Sometimes, we don't know what it is, but there is some good that can come out of every situation in life. Sometimes we can doubt that, sometimes we can think that is not possible. But, if God can use the jailing of his servants for His glory, He will. Likewise, in your life, thing will come, things will happen that God can use for His glory, if you will allow. Today, Paul and Silas allowed God to use this situation for His glory, and look what happened. Today, will you allow God to use your life for His glory, will you allow Him to work through you and in you in a powerful and mighty way?

Gospel Lesson

John 12:27-36a

When Jesus is lifted up; He will draw all unto Him. When He is lifted up in our lives, in our church, in our family, all will be drawn to Him. When He is lifted up with our words, with our actions, with our conduct, with who we are; all will be drawn to Him. When we live a life that gives Him the glory; all will be drawn to Him. When we live for Him; all will be drawn to Him.

Today, does your life draw all to Jesus? In your life, is He lifted up?