“Behold, I send you forth as sheep in the midst of wolves: be therefore wise as serpents, and harmless as doves..”  Matthew 10:16 (KJV)

Each day that we go out into the world we’re presumably doing a “balancing act” as it were. Going forth into the secular world where there’s continuous disdain and mockery for those of us with great faith. However, not all people in the secular world follow suit in terms of disdain or mockery, but it’s safe to say that a great majority do.  Harbingers of “wordly” goods can procure reprehensible acts which the world offers in abundnace. The world can run the gamut of hideous and evil abominations, while calling to us in “gentle disguise.”

 

This is what Jesus was warning us about…be aware, be watchful…be wise in the world.  As He instructed His disciples to go forth on their great commssion, He wanted them to be cautious and meek, while preparing for obstacles of derision and deception.

When we set forth to bring His message forward, no matter the depth of our  capacity… whether it’s local,  worldwide,  as a pastor, priest, or any member of clergy, or simply a lay person filled with faith…we must keep our eyes open to the ways of the world, and not conform to the wickedness that surrounds us… but instead, shine our light to those in the darkness.

The Dove has become known as a symbol of peace tied to our Savior, as the dove descended upon Jesus while being baptized in the Jordan.  Ultimately this gentle bird became known as a witness to tranquility and powerful in meaning when we symbolically tie it to the Holy Sprit

We’re all essentially ambassadors of Jesus as we preach His word, and share with others during our life on earth. But, the warning from Jesus to the disciples, and of course to us, is “keep your eyes open to the subtle deception of the world, while being meek,humble, and kind…be aware, because a ravenous wolf will tear you asunder if you become distracted in your quest.”  In other words, there is a need for a great balance.  We need to be both wise and gentle in order to exist and be purposeful in living out our destiny as God wills it.

So, prepare,  because ostensibly, we are NOT of this world. We are set apart from the worldly things.  We’re partaking in His gospel and His love willingly and obediently, while we adhere to His voice at all times.

So, take flight with His Spirit, and be of good cheer, because inherently we know this as John tells us so eloquently:   “Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world.” (1 John 4:4 KJV)

Are you ready to take flight?

 

by C D Swanson – 2015