Exhibits On Display

Read: Micah 4:4-7

“In that coming day,” says the LORD, “I will gather together those who are lame, those who have been exiles, and those whom I have filled with grief.” Micah 4:6

IN WORD

God’s promises of restoration were prophesied to a punished people, but they extend well beyond the generation they were first given to. We know that because His prophets used larger language to evoke ultimate purposes in a distant future. They reflected His heart to those who were hearing it as well as to those who still today long for a greater fulfillment. They showed them—and us—who He is.

So who does this God want to satisfy? He takes particular delight in elevating the weak and helpless of this world into places of power and authority, of rescuing the desperate and making His name great in those who seemed least likely to demonstrate greatness. He chooses the foolish things of the world to shame the wise (1 Corinthians 1:27), the weak things to overcome the strong, the poor to become richer than the rich, the lowly to rise higher than all, and more. He is the champion of the underdog whenever the underdog’s heart is invested in Him. He loves to turn the tables on our expectations.

That should cause us to question our expectations. What are we hoping God will do? How should we position ourselves for the greatest demonstrations of His glory? How do we learn to think like Him? Knowing who He is, what should we expect to see?

IN DEED

Wrestle with these questions. Don’t fall into the trap of embracing the world’s value systems while expressing allegiance to God. It isn’t that He rejects all who are healthy and whole—far from it, as that’s His longing for everyone. But He takes great pleasure in showcasing His nature among those who need Him most clearly.

If that’s the heart of your Father, let it become your heart too. Those in need are not an obligation; they are an opportunity to demonstrate the King’s nature. Those who are weak are not useless; they are wonderful possibilities of His power. Every human being can be an exhibit of His work. Bring the margins of society into the center of His body. The Kingdom is formed through such as these.

ADDITIONAL READING: 1 Corinthians 1:26-31

We follow a gospel which says that when I am weak, then I am strong. And this gospel is the only thing that brings healing.

N. T. WRIGHT