Lent Day 14: What you do shows who you are

 Skepticism shows up when you have something to lose. 

  • Academics can be skeptical of new findings that turn their ideas on their heads.
  • Politicians can be skeptical of movements that don't pay dividends.
  • Religious leaders can be skeptical of the work of the Spirit if it doesn't agree with their presuppositions.
So the Pharisees and scribes (academics) of Jesus' day are skeptical of Jesus' claim to be God.
Jesus doesn't argue with them. Instead, he says, "What I do proves who I am and what scripture says about me." Read about it here:

[Jesus said to the Pharisees:] John [the Baptist] was a lamp that burned and gave light, and you chose for a time to enjoy his light.

I have testimony weightier than that of John. For the works that the Father has given me to finish – the very works that I am doing – testify that the Father has sent me. And the Father who sent me has himself testified concerning me. You have never heard his voice nor seen his form, nor does his word dwell in you, for you do not believe the one he sent.

You study the Scriptures diligently because you think that in them you have eternal life. These are the very Scriptures that testify about me, yet you refuse to come to me to have life.

I do not accept glory from human beings, but I know you. I know that you do not have the love of God in your hearts. I have come in my Father’s name, and you do not accept me; but if someone else comes in his own name, you will accept him. How can you believe since you accept glory from one another but do not seek the glory that comes from the only God?

But do not think I will accuse you before the Father. Your accuser is Moses, on whom your hopes are set. If you believed Moses, you would believe me, for he wrote about me. But since you do not believe what he wrote, how are you going to believe what I say? (John 5:35-47)

> If someone doesn't believe what you say or what scripture says about Jesus, you can bet they're going to watch how you live.

> You can't talk someone into the Kingdom of Heaven. You can't force them to believe. God loves us enough to let us choose to be with him or without him.

> So live well. What do others see in you?
> Does your life reflect the joy, peace, patience, kindness, and goodness - and especially the love - that is the fruit that grows naturally in someone who is permeated by the Spirit of God? Here's a list of what shows up as you deepen your relationship with God through Jesus Christ:

The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. (Galatians 5:22-23) 

> Why not take time to consider how those genuine and attractive qualities are part of your own life? Then ask God for help where you are off track ... 

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