Look out.
That phrase is a warning of impending danger. It alerts people to what needs to be done to avoid potential harm or to take the necessary measures to combat the threat.
Look out.
This is also a call to not get so self-absorbed that we do not consider what is going on beyond us.
That aspect of being self-absorbed can be a danger in itself. Leading to looking at how we look and how we present ourselves that actual substance is not regarded. Reputation and style become the main concerns as opposed to what there is to offer and the change that is goes far beyond the surface.
I know all the things you do, and that you have a reputation for being alive—but you are dead. (Revelation 3:1 NLT)
This is a damning indictment that any expression of the Body of Christ in a locality could receive. These are words given as an assessment on the state of a church and that assessment is by Jesus. Exploring the reasons for the condition, you note that they had stopped being careful and watchful over the fundamentals of their identity. They had a great reputation on the surface, but beneath it was something very different. A superficial spiritual community that needed to get back a sense of vigilance over its purpose.
There are things that can lead communities of grace astray from what really matters. That’s why in pursuing the change that Jesus brings, the expression of His Body must remain vigilant. Vigilant on the dangers affecting the culture around it as well as vigilant of the dangers that could corrupt from the inside.
Continuing with the state of being asleep to these dangers will see that community in peril not just of not being a beacon for the change, but being swept aside by it.
We watch as we wait for you, Father. We recognise that the need for change is delivered as we remain awake. Help us not to slumber to the allure outside and the challenges within. We look to you.
(Photo by Alev Takil on Unsplash)
For His Name’s Sake
Shalom
C. L. J. Dryden
Life With CD 