The meaning and sometimes even the spelling of words change over time. Assuming everyone agrees on a definition can lead to confusion Take, for example, the word: despise. In what context have you used this verb?
“My toddler grandchild will not eat carrots –she despises them.”
“That commercial is so annoying, I’m starting to despise that product.“
Or does that word remind you of Luther’s explanation of the Third Commandment? We are to fear and love God, so that we do not despise the preaching of God’s Word…”
When reviewing the Ten Commandments on a personal repentance check list, I’m quick to respond, “Remember the Sabbath and keep it holy? I go to church regularly. CHECK! Despise--really hate God’s Word? No guilt for that on my plate.”
But just because I don’t condemn the Bible, does not mean I have nothing to repent.
Merriam-Webster equates the word despise with scorn; “ranging from strong dislike to true hatred.” Martin Luther’s explanation instructs us to “keep that Word holy and gladly hear and learn it.”
Do I whole-heartedly, daily look forward to hearing and learning about my Savior? Am I, like King David, eagerly rejoicing to worship in God’s house?
“I rejoiced with those who said to me, ‘Let us go to the house of the Lord.’”
— Psalm 122:1
Many Christians admitted the forced closure of churches during Covid-19 restrictions has renewed their appreciation for worship services. Even though many congregations were forced to hurriedly learn the words “livestream” and “zoom”, this technology greatly multiplied at-home participation in worship and faith growth opportunities. The Lord certainly used my social distancing loneliness to prompt my joining several on-line Bible studies, and use other Christian resources for encouragement.
Martin Luther and his wife Katie survived, while aiding many sick, through the horrific Black Plague of 1527. Later, he wrote this comparison; “I have lived to see the greatest plague on earth – the condemning of God’s Word, a fearful thing, surpassing all other plagues in the world; for thereupon most surely follow all manner of punishments, eternal and corporal.”
When I receive a letter, a special card or even the smallest texts from my family or close friends, my adrenaline increases, and nothing else grabs my attention as I read and reread their words. After thinking about and making sure I properly understand the communication, I respond with gratitude, eager for the next correspondence. Not caring to read or understand those words to me would be despising what was written and their authors.
Do I yearn for, read, remember, study, enjoy and thoroughly appreciate God’s love letters to me? Holy Spirit, please motivate my heart to do so.
“Whom have I in heaven but you? And earth has nothing I desire
besides you. My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength
of my heart and my portion forever.” — Psalm 73:25-26
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