“In Tarshish we can have a religious career without having to deal with God.” — Eugene Peterson
Even if my busyness and activity is religious, I could be far from God. I could have all the right answers and know God’s Word. Without the transformative work of the Holy Spirit, it’s only going through the motions of a “religious career”, and we know what Jesus thinks about that:
Matthew 23:27-28: “Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you are like whitewashed tombs, which outwardly appear beautiful, but within are full of dead people’s bones and all uncleanness. So you also outwardly appear righteous to others, but within you are full of hypocrisy and lawlessness”.
I want to follow hard after Jesus and let his spirit transform me from the inside out. Any religious activity I do should be because God himself is compelling me to do it, not because of tradition or expectation or anything else… only obedience.
Immanuel, forgive us for identifying as Christians then getting too busy with our own stuff. This is sin. Give us courage to surrender and follow you wholeheartedly. Your kingdom come, your will be done.
Reflections on Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Day by Day: a 40-day Journey with the Daily Office (Week 1 Day 2 Morning)
