Psalm 72; Wisdom 13:1-9; Rom 13:1-14; Luke 8:16-25
Paul makes much the same argument as Solomon does concerning creation. As I read this I realize that believing in creation is an important part of worship in my life. The more I consider creation and the beauty therein the more I realize that beauty and symmetry and uniqueness are truly only worth worshipping if there is one who stands behind them as the artisan. The fact that the mind of God brought forth these things is worth marveling over. Why would evolution produce beauty rather than functionality? Creation is far more elegant than can be explained by theories of evolution and it is this elegance and variety and beauty that should lead us to worship the One who brought it all into being, He is infinitely more creative than we can imagine. If we believe in a creator God then we have so much more for which to be thankful, we have so much to look forward to in eternity.
The disciples get to see first hand the power of God’s speaking to creation and having it co-operate. In the beginning God spoke and it was so and then the first creation with an advanced mind and created in His image came to be and we used that mind to disobey. As a species we bring nothing good into the world when we use our minds for disobedience. When we co-operate with God’s will and submit ourselves to Him, great things are possible and all of creation anxiously anticipates the revelation of the true children of God. Jesus is happy to call those who know and do the will of God His brothers, sisters and mothers. That is the basis for recognition in the kingdom, knowing and doing the will of God, in that we reveal ourselves to be His true children and image-bearers.
This is a part of the sovereignty of God I don’t always like. What does Paul mean when he says that all authority is from God and those that exists are instituted by God? Considering Paul knew what it meant to live under the emperors of Rome including Nero, he clearly means that even wicked rulers are given their authority by God. Also, Paul never pulled a punch when he dealt with rulers, never flattered them when truth was necessary. Essentially, Paul says to be a good, law-abiding citizen. In any event, the end is near so we need to love one another and act like Christians putting on the armor of light as we anticipate the new creation, redeemed and perfect.
And all ye men of tender heart,
Forgiving others, take your part,
O sing ye! Alleluia!
Ye who long pain and sorrow bear,
Praise God and on Him cast your care!
O praise Him! O praise Him!
Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia!
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