“blowing in the wind”
“When they sow the wind, they shall reap the whirlwind.” —Hosea 8:7
If we sow the wind, we will reap the whirlwind. We reap tornadoes, which bring destruction and chaos. Sowing the wind means blowing where we will (cf Jn 3:8), doing our own thing. If we act by our own authority and without God’s approval, we will destroy ourselves (Hos 8:4). If we try to save our lives by taking charge of them and controlling them, we lose them (Lk 9:24-25) and destroy ourselves. If we give up doing our own thing and lose our lives to doing God’s will, then we will save our lives.
Where have spiritual tornadoes wrecked your life? Is your marriage in ruins and your family in shambles? Is your parish in a state of confusion? Is your neighborhood marked by “disorderly conduct”? Tornadoes are repeatedly hitting our educational, political, and economic systems.
Spiritual tornadoes don’t just “come out of thin air.” They were caused, initiated, sown (Hos 8:7). We chased after the wind and wandered after our desires (Eccl 6:9). Repent of the wind of sin, rebellion, and self-centeredness. When the wind changes, the whirlwinds subside. The old song was right: “The answer, my friend, is blowing in the wind.”
Prayer: Father, replace the wind of rebellion with the wind of the Spirit (see Acts 2:2, 4).
Promise: “The harvest is good, but laborers are scarce. Beg the harvest Master to send out laborers to gather His harvest.” —Mt 9:37-38
Praise: St. Elizabeth of Portugal became Queen of Portugal at an early age. Her royal status didn’t stop her from serving the poor.
Reference: (Christian Home-Based Communities are essential for living in the world today and will assist you and your family as you navigate through this troubled world. July 25-27 and 27-30 are parts 1 and 2 of the teachings on forming these Communities. Call 513-373-2397 or e-mail retreats@presentationministries.com.)
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