Sign in or register to download original

Description

Imagining the Lectionary: Fit for purpose? (Epiphany 8A)
 
Reflection accompanying image “flamingo
 
"Steep your life in God-reality, God-initiative, God-provisions. Don't worry about missing
out."   Matthew 6:33 (The Message) 
 
"But strive first for the kingdom of God and his righteousness"  Matthew 6:33 (NRSV) 
 
The Flamingo is a lovely example of how over time the processes of evolutionary
adaptation have tuned aspects of form and function to fit a very particular ecological niche
and habitat type. Because of this the Flamingo we see today seems well and truly fit for
purpose. It may look odd, but that simply reflects our lack of insight into what we are
seeing. If we were to factor in how well its form fits its function we might conclude that the
Flamingo is right up there with the latest F1 racing cars in terms of fitness for purpose.
 
When Jesus teaches his followers what real discipleship involves he is equally concerned
that they be fit for purpose. In this instance Jesus strives to reshape their individual self-
understanding and collective identity so that they will be well adapted to the life of disciples
whose primary purpose is the inbreaking and outworking of God's Kingdom of Love.

Continues...
Log in to create a review