For the past few weekends, our Epistle readings have been from 1 Corinthians. In this weekend’s reading Paul shows a bit of frustration with members of the church at Corinth for failing to grow and mature in their faith. “I gave you milk, not solid food, for you were not yet ready for it. Indeed, you are still not ready. You are still worldly. For since there is jealousy and quarreling among you, are you not worldly? Are you not acting like mere humans?” (1 Corinthians 3:2–3, NIV) Acting like mere humans? We are humans, and humans sin. Is Paul guilty of unrealistic expectations?

He would be if Christianity were based on our ability to live perfect lives for God. But it isn’t. We live by faith in our Lord Jesus and what He did for us as our Savior, and part of His work includes the gift of the Holy Spirit who works and sustains saving faith in us, helping us to mature in our ability to live a life of love to God and our neighbor as Jesus lived. But some are content to simply know Jesus loves them and aren’t interested in having a transformed life.

Tim Hetzner shared the following in a recent devotion from Lutheran Church Charities: “NASA space engineers tell us most of the fuel that is used in a rocket launch is burned during the initial few seconds of lift-off. It takes enormous energy and thrust to move the rocket off the launching pad. Once it’s moving and headed for orbit, it needs much less fuel and is simpler to control and direct. It has conquered inertia. It’s one thing to know God can solve your problem and change your life. It’s another matter to overcome your inertia and let Him begin to do it now! We keep saying, ‘One of these days…’ The truth is, Jesus Christ has the power to make changes in your life today. He will give you the power to begin and the power to keep going. It’s not too late. He can put your life back together again.”

As the hymn says, “Take my life and let it be consecrated, Lord, to Thee.”