Light in the Lord
Scripture Reading — Ephesians 5:3-14
You were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light. Ephesians 5:8
Most people probably wouldn't think that working for a bank could be dangerous to your health, but in my case it was. Gradually I spent more time each day sitting at a desk rather than standing or walking. When I was not overeating at fine restaurants with bank customers, I was grabbing quick meals of "empty-calorie" foods. In just a few years at the bank, I had put on dozens of unhealthy pounds.
At my annual physical exam, my doctor bluntly ordered me to leave this unhealthy pattern of life behind. He told me what foods I would be eating (and in what portions) and also what I would not be eating. He ordered me to take time for healthy exercise. I am more grateful now than I was 25 years ago for this good doctor's bluntness.
In our Scripture for today, Paul bluntly prescribes his orders for healthy spiritual life. There are unhealthy patterns that must be left behind. "Deeds of darkness" have no nutritional value for the Christian life. Those who fill their mouths with obscenity, foolish talk, or coarse language are digesting empty spiritual calories that only bring God's anger. And sexual immorality, impurity, and greed have no place in a Christian's exercise routine.
Instead, Christians will live with the light of Christ leading to goodness, righteousness, and truth.
Our Father, let the light of your Son shine on us. Following the example of Jesus our brother, may we live as your children--children of light. In Jesus' name, Amen.
About the author — Fred Bultman
Fred Bultman began a “second career” as a pastor in 1997, after a first career in the banking business. He served as pastor to congregations in the U.S. and Canada. In retirement, he continues to enjoy sharing in the ministry of the churches in and around his home in Fremont, Michigan.
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