February 4, 2022

As you know, there are a whole lot of things going on in our world at this time. But then, that is a given at any time. There is always a lot going on.

Today, there is Covid, numerous national tensions, and a tragic and unprecedented worldwide refugee migration. There are international military tensions to go along with South and Central American political unrest – and so much more. We are aware of all these things. A 24/7 news cycle ensures that we are aware.

There was a lot going on in the first-century world in which Jesus and Paul lived, too. And there is evidence that they were well aware of them.

Jesus was intimately acquainted with Roman ways and customs. He even knew the character of the Roman-installed leaders of Palestine. (See Luke 13:31-33 and His reference to Herod as “that fox”)

Paul was a Roman citizen, having been born in the city of Tarsus. He demonstrated a great knowledge of the day’s philosophers when evangelizing on Mars Hill in Athens and interacted intelligently with Roman rulers (See Acts 24 and following where we read of his addresses to Governor Felix, Festus (another ruler), and before King Agrippa, all prior to his court date before Caesar in Rome.)

It is telling, too, that Old Testament characters knew what was going on in their worlds. That is evident from Moses’ interaction with other people groups, the prophecies of Jeremiah, and the interactions Daniel had with Babylonian and Persian kings.

God’s people have always been aware of the news of the day. I submit that they have always struggled with the temptation to be consumed by the day’s headline news, while aiming, instead, to seek first God’s kingdom and His righteousness. (Matthew 6:33)

God has consistently told His people to not be consumed by the news and the big happenings of the world around them, but to direct their thoughts and attentions and affections elsewhere. Namely, Godward.

This is our calling, too. And this (February, 2022) is an especially timely season in which to remember that calling. We are to follow the lead of God’s people through the ages, and especially the lead of Jesus, and Paul, Peter, and John and NOT be consumed with the news of the secular world.

There was plenty of news and policies that directly impacted our forefathers lives and ministries. Their focus, though, was on the advance of God’s kingdom. Their energies were directed to the progress of the Gospel. Their prayers and support zeroed in on the sufferings of their brothers and sisters in Jesus.

Why don’t we read about Nero’s policies or excesses, or about Roman and Scythian border skirmishes in the New Testament letters? It is not that they didn’t know what was happening. Just like we know about what is happening all around us. The reason we don’t read about Roman headline news in the New Testament is that the apostles were focused elsewhere.

Now, I personally think that Christians should be well-informed about the big stuff happening in our world today. That news is real and impactful and relevant. But while all of the newsworthy events and trends continue, Jesus assures us that His Father is always working (John 5:17), and THAT’s news!

The question to each of us, today, is, “About what will you, will I, be most passionate?”

Cases in point:

Hundreds (thousands!) of immigrants have come to San Antonio. They will continue to come, changing the complexion of our city. Part of the impact of those who are coming to our city will be increased disruption, communication challenges, cultural missteps. And, yes, that’s news. But, through these arrivals, doors of opportunity are opening for us to serve immigrants in Jesus’ Name. That’s the news we’ve been praying for!

Lots of our friends are losing faith in institutions they have long trusted – government, medicine, and education to name three. That’s news. But…when someone sees the bankruptcy of the systems of this world, they just might be more open to exploring a Person who is imminently trustworthy. The news of openness to considering Jesus and His Good News message is the best news out there!

Those who choose to watch the Olympics, beginning this week, will see dazzling athletic feats and a well-orchestrated two weeks-worth of programming. That will be highly reported news. At the same time, people I know who have their ear to the ground tell me that this spring will likely bring increased hardship and pressures to Christians and churches in China. Persecution of our brothers and sisters will expand and deepen. That news will prompt prayer and generosity from us to those who lack provision.

When we gather on Sundays, or throughout the week in groups, or over coffee or a meal, let’s make it our aim to focus on what the Lord Jesus focused on and on what the apostles focused on in their ministries and letters.

We will pay PRIMARY attention to the news of the advance of God’s kingdom, the progress of the Gospel, and the support of our suffering Christian family.

Yours…His,

Dave