MASTERED BY DIVINITY

I have a portfolio filled with diplomas, certificates, and awards for accomplishing many programs of learning and training I have taken throughout my years of preparing myself for this and that.  I would begin the class, do the work, pass the test, and then I was prepared to go forth and do what I was to do.  If it wasn’t an official program of learning I would consider the 10,000 hours makes an expert rule.  Whatever route I took the concept was I was ready to go out on my own, doing my thing that I had spent time preparing for, and I should feel a sense of confidence because of the accomplishments I had made.

I have noticed something different in Jesus’ method of schooling and training for his disciples.  His first words are “follow me” and his last words are “follow me”; they are not the words I heard, “go out and do your thing.”  In the economy of God’s kingdom Jesus’ disciples may go out to teach, lead, and serve, but it is always as a disciple of Jesus, a follower of Jesus, and a servant of Jesus; it is not of ourselves or by ourselves.

My aim in life is not self sufficiency.  I will never “Master Divinity”, no matter what the diploma says.  My confidence comes from communion with God and being obedient to the Spirit of Truth; following Jesus and walking in his Presence, observing and teaching all he commanded.  I can do nothing on my own which is why Jesus promises his Presence and the power of the Holy Spirit who works in me and through me.

My aim in life is to follow Jesus as his disciple and allow his life to flow through mine.  The only diploma, certificate, or award I want at the end of my life is to hear him say, “Well done, good and faithful servant.”