Advent Devotion

December 7, 2009

The Six Word Summary

Excerpt from Isaiah 40: 1 - 11

"The grass withers, the flower fades, but the word of our God will stand forever. Get you up to a high mountain . . . Lift up your voice with strength . . . Lift it up, do not fear."

Reflection by Anthony B. Robinson

Invited to speak at an historic urban church, I was taken on a tour and told the church's story prior to my talk. "Yes, I thought our church would close its doors," said the longtime member. The last century had seen decades of steady decline. "Only about fifty of us left. But lately we've experienced a great renewal . . . . New people coming, reaching out to our community. Four hundred in worship now," he said, beaming.

"What happened?" I asked, "What made the difference?" My guide smiled and said, "Our new minister didn't do it by himself, but he's been important." I persisted, "Well, what did he do?" "He got us studying the Bible," said the old man, with a clear inference that they hadn't done anything like that in a good long time. "Yes, he gives a great Bible study. In fact, our minister can give the message of the entire Bible in just six words," he said smiling broadly.

"Six words? Really?" Skeptical, I asked, "And what might the six words that summarize the message of the entire Bible be?" A broad smile creased his wrinkled face. "The six words that summarize the message of the Bible? 'I am God and you're not.'" He burst out laughing, as did I. "I am God and you're not," can be bad news if we think we're in charge here. But it's finally good news, really good news. God is God. God is faithful. The word of our God will stand forever.

Prayer

Holy One, though the days are darkening now, speak your word of encouragement to me and through me, your great promise that your word stands forever and that you are faithful beyond all measure. Amen.