Our intention thus is not to demonstrate a certain level of piety or impress others with our spirituality, knowledge of the Bible, or goodness. It is not to pursue or promulgate a certain ideological or theological position. It is not an ego trip. Our goal, rather, is to live a life grounded in the fruit of the Spirit.
Over the centuries, our Christian traditions have variously developed a technology for focusing on the Spirit that includes most importantly prayer and meditation, the study of the Bible, fellowship with other Christians, and intentional service of others. There are other techniques such as fasting or going on pilgrimage that we might call upon, but these four stand at the heart of our pursuit of life and peace in the Spirit. Still more to the point, the goal our prayer and meditation, Bible study, fellowship, and service is not ultimately life and peace for us alone or even primarily. The goal is life and peace for family, friends, colleagues, our community, and our world. The thing is we cannot share with others what we do not have ourselves. Amen.
