Out of This World!

When we talk about something being “out of this world” we are generally talking about something that appears extraordinary. Perhaps it is that which seems OUT OF PLACE in this world because it is of a quality above what is commonly associated with the world. It’s essence may even be that which we would associate with another place because, though it is here, there is something about it that just doesn’t allow it to invisibly blend in with the environment around it. For some reason it sticks out. Perhaps its characteristics that will not allow it to FIT IN strike us as being like trying to place a square peg in a round hole. It won’t work unless it is reshaped to fit the hole.

As Jesus neared the time of His arrest and crucifixion, in His prayer for His disciples and for those who would believe their testimony, Jesus prayed…
“(14) I have given them your word, and the world has hated them because they are NOT OF THE WORLD, just as I am NOT OF THE WORLD. (15) I do not ask that you take them OUT OF THE WORLD, but that you keep them from the evil one. (16) They are NOT OF THE WORLD, just as I am NOT OF THE WORLD.”
( John 17:14-16 ESV)

Jesus referred to them as being no more of the world than He was. They had been worldly men. They had been involved in jobs and lives as others in the world. But Jesus had brought a new essence into their lives. He had come from Heaven and elevated them by the work given them to do. And because of their new found relationship with Jesus, they no longer fit in invisibly with society around them. They had a new nature which was beginning to stand out in ways that would be noticed by others. We see this most as their ministry began following our Lord’s ascension back into Heaven. (i.e. Acts
4:13)

This world may try to reshape us to make us fit into the hole it has made for us. However, in Christ, we have become a “new creation”. ( 2 Corinthians 5:17) Is that truly becoming more and more the essence of our life? Are we gradually being renewed more and more into the image of Christ? If so, it should not surprise us when we at times feel we are having difficulty FITTING IN. We are not to be of this world any more than Jesus was. We have a higher calling. We are to live in accordance with a godly essence because we now have a heavenly citizenship. May it be seen to the glory of God.

Have a great day ENCOURAGED HOW GOD CAN TRANSFORM THE ORDINARY!
Carl

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