For many people the Old Testament seems too full of God's judgment to embrace. Some might even say that while God's grace is woven through the New Testament, it is absent from the Old Testament. But a closer look reveals that God's grace is evident throughout Scripture, even from "In the beginning, God..."
Our summer sermon series has been delving into God's grace writ large throughout the Hebrew Scriptures (the Old Testament). We have examined God's grace in the lives of Esther, Jeremiah, Hannah, Joseph, Daniel, and Rahab. This Sunday we take a look at God's grace in the life of Enoch. You can read about Enoch in Genesis 5:21-24 and Hebrews 11:1-6.
For some time I have been curious about Enoch. Scripture doesn't tell us much. It's as if we are given a little teaser that leaves us yearning for more of the story. Enoch, the father of Methuselah, lived to be an old, old man. He lived and he lived and he lived for, we are told, "Enoch walked with God; then he was no more, because God took him" (Gen. 5:24, NRSV). Enoch walked with God and then he was no more. Amazing! Truly amazing! The wording here indicates that Enoch did not taste death. In fact, Hebrews chapter 11, often referred to as the "Hall of Faith," states that Enoch didn't experience death because God took him. Yes, truly amazing!
As I am praying toward Sunday, questions crowd my mind. What was it about Enoch that made walking with God a way of life? How did Enoch journey through his days? Exactly how did his life please God?
These days walking is considered more of an aerobic exercise than anything else. I don't know about you, but seldom do I take long, meandering walks to no where. I generally walk with a purpose. I have places to go, people to see, and things to do. But walking serves more than a mode of aerobic exercise. Could it be that spiritual exercise is even more important? And maybe that is something Enoch knew well. Walking with God is good for the heart and good for the soul.
See you Sunday.
Blessings,
Glenda
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ReplyDeleteTo post, I hit "comment" and then when the box came up, I typed my comment. Then chose "google" to post comment. Hopefully this will help those who are having trouble posting.
ReplyDeleteI feel the journey with God is an everyday walk.
ReplyDeleteTruly inspirational insight regarding one of God's many wonderful works. I really enjoy the experience of Enoch as it gives me comfort in knowing that when I walk with God, I am protected. The LORD is my Shepard, I lack nothing!
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ReplyDeleteWalking is the most important part of Arnie's recovery from bypass surgery. We try to walk every day and celebrate each time he goes a little farther. Some days we can't go as far or we don't even feel like walking. It's a lot like our faith journey. We feel good when we get new insights and move forward. Sometimes we feel like we're standing still or even going backwards. God is always with us and keep us going.
ReplyDeleteDonna, you are so right. And how wonderful that along our pilgrim way, we have our faith community to bolster us up and celebrate each step with us.
ReplyDeleteGlenda,
ReplyDeleteI like the new blog, very insightful! I got my bible out, read the verses and am looking forward to the sermon tomorrow.
Sara,
ReplyDeleteThanks so much for your comment. I hope the blog provided you some food for thought. Blessings,
Glenda