15 Rather, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ, – Ephesians 4:15
“Grow up!” I remember the words well. My elementary school recess was filled with boys who needed to grow up and certain girls who told us we needed to do so. They were right. My friends and I were immature. I can only speak from my experience, but it seems we, like many boys, had to learn that being rude, hyper-competitive, and gross garners the wrong kind of attention from girls. I don’t think I need to go into detail. I’m sure you can imagine the kind of boyhood antics that merited the snarky refrain.
In my school, the girls were way more mature, and we boys were flat out annoying. So, when I hear or read the words “grow up” it always takes me back to the third grade in Mr. D’s class. He was a great teacher who treated us fairly but didn’t take any nonsense. When certain boys acted up, he corrected us. And when certain girls had enough, he’d encourage them to hang in there. In essence, I guess you could say he encouraged the girls to speak the truth in love and the boys to grow up so we could get along and he could live in peace.
Wow. Now there’s a noble thought that can still be applied to many situations in our adult lives. Beyond the boy/girl stuff I experienced in elementary school, this is a goal for all of us. Speak the truth in love to one another so we can grow up and become more like Jesus. If you agree, you will not want to miss Sunday.
Our passage is Ephesians 4:7-16 and the title is, “Called to Completion.” In other words, called to mature and fulfill God’s call, purpose, and plan in our lives. Take some time to read over the text and consider how the Lord has gifted, equipped, and called you to mature and serve him. I’m so glad I’m not who I was in elementary school and I’m even more thrilled to realize that He’s still working on me. Join me this Sunday for another opportunity to grow.
Here is the worship set to help you prepare your heart.
Love you Church,
Jerry Lingenfelter
Senior Pastor