OCR Text |
Show Are Christians considered fools? by REV. STEVE O. SCHEIDERER Pastor, Cross of Christ Lutheran Church Yes! In 1988 Good Friday, the commemoration of the day Christ died on the cross, fell on April 1, or "April Fools Day." This coincidence coin-cidence brought to mind the words of Apostle Paul: "We are fools for Christ's sake." (1 Cor. 4:10). This year, we once again find ourselves "April Fools" as we celebrate His resurrection on April 15. But, what exactly does this mean for Christians? First, it means that God expects us to live contrary to the way that feels natural, the way that seems foolish to us. For example: We put God first, even though we cannot see Him (Heb. 11). We don't misuse God's name, even if it would make us more popular to do so. We remember God is there when we are in need (Ps. 50: 1 5). We attend worship weekly, even if other activities seem more fun. We have the promise of His blessings bless-ings when we do (Lk. 11:28). We honor our parents and God-given authority, even when we'd rather "do our own thing." By doing so, God prolongs our lives (Ex. 20:12). We love all people, even our enemies, and "turn the other cheek" (Matt. 5:39-44). God equates hate with murder (1 Jn. 3:15). We keep ourselves sexually pure before and after marriage, no matter how acceptable alternative lifestyles become (Mt. 19:3-9). We do not steal, even if the money belongs to the government (even if taxes this year are confusing) confus-ing) (Ex. 20:15; Mt. 22:21). We speak well of all people, even those that are the most open to gossip (Ex. 20:16; Prov. 16:28). We work and trust God for the "desires of our hearts," even if it would be easier to acquire things dishonestly (Ps. 37:4). Second, we realize that we cannot possibly live the Christian life without God's constant help. We humble ourselves by setting aside our human wisdom and trust totally upon God. We realize that human wisdom cannot solve life's ultimate problems (Ps. 14:1; Rom 1:22; 1 Cor. 3:19). Finally, and above all, we confess con-fess that Christ Jesus overcame our human weaknesses by living a perfect life in our place. We trust that His death paid the price for our sins, a price we could never have paid. We admit that to some the preaching of the cross is foolishness. But as St. Paul said, "The cross...unto us which are saved sav-ed is the power of God" (1 Cor. 1:18). Yes, the cross of Christ at times seems foolish, whether Good Friday falls on April 1 st or not. However, the cross of Christ was God's way of saving the world (Jn. 3:14-16). In the world's eyes, if this makes Christians "fools," then so be it. Why? "Because the foolishness of God is wiser than men; and the weakness of God is stronger than men." (1 Cor. 1:25). Let us never forget that the crucified Christ did what no man could ever hope to do. He also rose triumphantly from the dead on Easter morning. A person is not wise to ignore this fact. In the crucified and resurrected Christ, we find both forgiveness and eternal life. "He was delivered for our offenses, and was raised again for our justification" (Rom. 4:25). Are Christians "fools" to follow the only one in history to rise Himself from the dead? Perhaps, but only to our own minds and the world. May you be a "fool for Christ" in 1990. |