The Conversation Continues

Job 29:1, 30:1-2, 16-31
Acts 14:19-28
John 11:1-16
Job is suffering greatly, and after a lengthy description of his condition he says, profoundly, “my lyre is turned to mourning, and my pipe to the voice of those who weep” (Job 30:31). But Job is still speaking, not only to his companions, but also to God. The lines of communication are buzzing with anger and pain, but they are still buzzing, and that means there is still the opportunity for grace and hope. Paul and Barnabas, too, have had a rough time. In fact, Paul has been left for dead after a stoning. But upon being revived he is able to offer encouragement to those who follow the way as disciples, saying, “It is through many persecutions that we must enter the kingdom of God” (Acts 14:22). Here, too, the conversation continues, in this case the gospel message being offered despite the setbacks, offered to believers and the world at large as well. And how many times might Jesus himself have given up? How many times might he have said, “forget it. These people are never going to catch on. Why bother?” But instead of giving up Jesus continues to plug away, even when his life is in danger, even when those around him are having a terribly difficult time understanding it? In each case, be it between God and humanity, among believers, or between Jesus and his disciples.

How are we doing? Are we allowing the conversation between God and the world to continue. Are we playing our part, even in difficult times or situations? Or are we allowing the conversation to die, drowned out by bad news or lost among apathetic expressions like, “what difference does it make, anyway?” The difference is this, that there are vital and important words to be spoken and a life-changing God who remains at work. To let even our part of the conversation die is to turn out backs on the work of the coming reign of God. To let it die is to deny its power to change men and women and to build new foundations in the world. How could we do that? Instead we should take the words of Job and Paul as our own words. To speak out of love, but honestly and frankly, with God and neighbor is a great way to repair connections and to break down dividing walls. And we must continue to trust in Jesus as with compassion he tends to us, despite our hardheadedness.

Prayer: Lord, we confess that we find it too easy to give up and to become silent instead of living boldly as your witnesses. Give us words to speak and the courage with which to use them. In Jesus’ name. Amen.