by Rev. Aidan Moon
Walking Wisely
You can listen to today’s devotion by clicking this SoundCloud link.
“Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the best use of the time, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is.”
– Ephesians 5:15-17, ESV
Walking paths always draw my eye and my attention. On this particular mountain stroll, the narrow walking bridge over this stream drew me in. It was relatively sturdy, but still required attention to make sure a false step didn’t plunge my feet into the cold mountain water. The stakes weren’t that high, all things considered, but nonetheless, I would rather not spend the rest of my hike in wet shoes and socks.
In our walk with Jesus, the stakes are considerably higher, and this is what Paul gets at in Ephesians 5. He urges the Ephesians, surrounded by spiritual perils and trials, to walk wisely, to walk in the light. To walk in the love of Jesus. The pattern is clear – just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us, we are to walk in that same love, and walk wisely, carefully, intentionally, seeking to stay in the light of Christ.
Our Christian life in Jesus is a gift – no doubt about it. By grace you have been saved, through faith! But since we have been rescued, set on a clear and open path, set on the way, we are to stay on that path by walking wisely. Don’t slip off the path, because the way of what Paul calls “the unfruitful works of darkness” will only lead to more pain and difficulty on the way. But in it all, Christ is with you – the path is his. He is your guide and your rescuer when you slip off the path and need to be lifted out of the water, dried off, and set back on the way.
“You have given me the shield of your salvation,
and your right hand supported me,
and your gentleness made me great.
You gave a wide place for my steps under me,
and my feet did not slip.“– Psalm 18:35-36, ESV
Copyright Family of Christ Lutheran Church, Colorado Springs, Colorado
