Is Your Church Alive?

Written by John Grant 

“For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.” Hebrews 4:12 

Seeing the commissioning of a new naval vessel is a wonderful sight and experience. Amidst all the pomp and circumstance dockside, the ship is moored at the dock, quiet as a church mouse and not a sight of a single person aboard.

Then at the appointed time someone says: “Officers and crew of the (name of vessel), you may board and bring the ship to life.” Then the crew comes running from behind the audience and boards the ship. It literally comes to life, as the crew scurries to their assigned duty stations. Smoke pours from the stacks, lights come on and sailors man the rails.

Are you looking around for an unused basin?

Word from Scotland: 

In John Chapter 13, where Jesus has stooped so low to wash the disciple’s feet we have that profound conversation between Jesus and Peter, where Jesus explains to Peter that what he wants is not necessary. Peter does not need to be washed from head to toe, but that desire and longing too has its significance. Peter wanted to be totally committed to Jesus Christ.

Jesus explains further. As I wash you in this way, you will be clean, but Peter, there is somebody else here who is not clean and he is so dirty that washing his feet will not do much good. Not only are his feet dirty Peter, but unlike you, his hands are dirty and his head is dirty. Judas had already agreed to sell Christ.

Jesus wants to come and wash us – clean our hearts and thoughts and minds – so that what we say and do will be worthy in His presence and sight. We need to know that deep within our hearts and minds and we also need to be reminded of it frequently.