The reference to Cyril of Jerusalem reveals a classic tenet of the Christian faith. How important it is to strike a healthy balance between what we say we believe AND what we actually do about it. It is a matter of knowing why we do what we do ( or not).
In those periods of history during which we are overly impressed with our own 'enlightenment,' the call for right practice is essential. Likewise, the moment we begin to boast in our own works (despite Paul's admonition in Ephesians 2:8-9), then it is time to reexamine the doctinal integrity of our own beliefs.
Orthodoxy and orthopraxy must remain intertwined. Perhaps the NT letter of James said it best in the recognition that "faith without works is dead." John Wesley made the same point in another way, as he declared that there is no personal holiness without the expression of social holiness. In other words, talk is cheap and mpulse driven action is often dangerous.
What does this mean for you in your current context? Sometimes I question whether or not I have 'ortho'--anything; either right beliefs or practices. Other times I tend to believe my way into acting, or act my way into believing.
Does God really care which one comes first? I'm not so sure.
Which one is easier for you?
Blessings to the believers and to the doers,
Darren
Welcome to the conversation! For as long as our own discipline will allow, I hope to use this resource as a forum for prayer and reflection for the community of Perdido Bay United Methodist Church. We'll be working through Common Prayer: A Liturgy for Ordinary Radicals as our daily devotional guide. Since we're beginning the journey on Ash Wednesday, the hope is that this will be an additional venue for us to pray together throughout this holy season.
No comments:
Post a Comment