88 - Good Soldiers of Christ

2 Timothy 2:1-26

Have you ever been to the ordination of a deacon or priest?  They are wonderful, magnificent services.   Those who have responded to God's call go through the "Process" of discernment, education, formation, and scrutiny. Finally the date is set, the music selected, and the friends and family invited. They kneel and promise to follow the doctrine of the church and obey their bishop.  The bishop lays hands upon them and invokes the Holy Spirit.

In the sermon, the preacher often gives a "charge" to the ordinand -- a special instruction on how to be a good priest, a word of encouragement, or a glimpse into the life to which they have committed themselves.

This portion of 2 Timothy reads very much like a charge:

• Be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus;
• Teach what you have learned of Jesus;
• Share in the suffering;
• Follow the rules of the church;
• Preach the gospel;
• Keep your eye on matters of importance.

Likewise when we as lay people are baptized or attend a baptism, we are charged and promise to:

• Continue in the apostles' teaching and fellowship, in prayers, and in breaking of bread;
• Persevere in resisting evil, and to repent and return to Lord when we falter;
• Proclaim by word and example the good news of God in Christ;
• Seek and serve Christ in all persons, loving our neighbors as ourselves;
• Strive for justice and peace among all people, respecting the dignity of all people.

Icon of St Paul

How do you live out your charge?