Divine Response

What happens when God answers? This is the question that is answered in Job 38:1-41. Job has been asking for God to hear him and Job's friends have been asking Job to repent of sin that he has not committed. In the midst of this exchange of much miscommunication God speaks. God's words are important to us especially as we face the struggles of life.

God's response is full of questions. We expect God to be clear to answer the questions that Job and his friends have been asking. Instead God asks questions of Job and his friends: "Where were you when I laid the foundation of the earth?" (Job 38:4) "Who has put wisdom in the inward parts, or given understanding to the mind?" (Job 38:36) We know the answer to these questions, God. They are important reminders as to who is in control and in whom we should put are trust.

Although heard frequently the message of Job is to depend on God. This does not mean that we use divine language as a token or as an excuse. But it does mean that we can count on God, that we can question God, but also that if we question we need to be prepared to hear God's response.

In Mark 10: 35-45, James and John wanted Jesus to guarantee them a special place in God's kingdom. I do not blame them. They had been faithful to Jesus. The response makes the priorities clear. It is not about being great but about being a servant. Those who serve are the greatest in God's eyes. Those who struggle and those who suffer are given priority in God's kingdom. Here the divine response is unexpected and clear just like it was in Job.

We live in a time where we hear God's name used openly. In American society it is easy to forget that the God that we proclaim is the God who created all that is. The name of God is not to be used for anything other than as a gracious response, desperate call, and act of praise to the Almighty.

I look forward to see you on Sunday!

Peace, Juan