Balance is always a difficult concept in life. Too much of any one thing can frequently lead to trouble. Many in the post modern world are critical of the denominational church for its emphasis, over emphasis if you ask them, of eternal life. We preach that Christ has saved us from sin and death and won eternal life for all who believe. The criticism focuses on the reality that frequently when believers become confident of salvation they step back from life and wait for eternal life. The cliché “frozen chosen” has been put forward to mean many unflattering things about believers. But are we “frozen” from activity because we know we have life, because we are waiting for that life to arrive? What of the mean time? What of the now?
Many churches successfully impacting this post modern world are calling themselves “missional”. It is an over used and mis-used term. However, they are focused on engaging people right now. They emphasize Jesus concern to help the “least of these my brothers” (Matthew 25). They believe the modern Christian Church has lost the balance between caring for people now and trusting in eternal life. Both are an essential part of the Christian life and calling.
If I step back and examine my preaching I see a balance. If I examine my own life I fear that balance is rarely well-maintained. Sometimes I am very missional and engaged. Sometimes I am more reflective and waiting. If my life is out of balance at times, how about yours? While you are chosen by God’s grace – are you frozen from ministry to those around you? If life is a journey, then join me in the challenge, and together let’s find and maintain balance.
