To Walk With God
Last weekend, we celebrated the Reformation and emphasized that the Church has a family story that centers on the Gospel. We do not get to heaven based on the good works we do for God, but rather because of what He, in His mercy, love, and compassion has done for us in forgiving our sins for Christ's sake. So does that mean that what we do does not matter? Hardly. Rather, our works are our response of thanksgiving to God for what He has done for us. In fact, the Holy Spirit Himself works in us the ability to become more and more like Christ and do those things which are pleasing in God's sight.
You have undoubtedly heard the phrase, "If you are going to talk the talk, you had better walk the walk." What is interesting is that in the Scriptures our relationship with God is described as walking with Him. For instance, in Genesis 5 we read of Enoch who faithfully walked with God before God took him. And in Genesis 6, we read of Noah who walked faithfully with God. The people of Israel walked through the Red Sea, following the presence of the Lord. Peter walked on the water to Jesus.
But Peter also began to sink, didn't he? The Children of Israel didn't always follow the Lord. Even Noah after the flood became drunk. And though we may strive to walk faithfully with our Lord, we are by no means perfect. Thus, it is such a comfort that we are saved not based on our perfect work for God, but by His perfect work for us in Christ Jesus.
This weekend as we celebrate All Saints' Day (which was November 1) and think about those who walked with Jesus by faith through this life and are now at rest with Him in heaven, we also consider our current lifestyle. Do we think of ourselves as being people who walk with Jesus, beginning each day asking, "Where will You lead me today?" and in the midst of the day saying again and again, "Thank You for continuing to go with me," and at the day's end giving Him thanks as we rest in Him? As the hymnist says: Only Jesus can impart Balm to heal the wounded heart, Peace that flows from sin forgiv’n, Joy that lifts the soul to heav’n, Faith and hope to walk with God In the way that Enoch trod.