English
Scripture Summary
2 Timothy 2:20-21 NIV
20 In a large house there are articles not only of gold and silver, but also of wood and clay; some are for special purposes and some for common use. 21 Those who cleanse themselves from the latter will be instruments for special purposes, made holy, useful to the Master and prepared to do any good work.
Reflection on the Scripture:
A pressing social issue today is how to address homelessness. Some individuals find themselves homeless due to losing their jobs, chronic illness, mental health challenges, and other reasons. Many of them work hard to escape this way of life and are grateful for the help they receive from the government. However, others choose to live this way, contributing to societal problems. They rely solely on government aid without contributing anything to society. The apostle Paul reveals a mystery of God’s kingdom in this passage. Whether a person can enter the kingdom of heaven depends entirely on God’s grace, not human deeds (Ephesians 2:8-9). However, once a person has entered the kingdom—like being welcomed into a large household—every citizen of God’s kingdom bears a responsibility. Each must make a choice about how to be a useful member of God’s kingdom. Doing good works, even as modest as the widow’s offering of two small coins, involves giving one’s best. A jewelry box is not designed to hold water, nor is a bucket meant for preserving food. Living out one’s God-given purpose makes one a vessel of honor. The work one does is good work. The apostle Peter reminds believers: "But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light." (1 Peter 2:9) Every citizen of God’s kingdom has the responsibility to reflect the image of the Lord who gave them life and to glorify God. As Paul writes: "I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me." (Galatians 2:20) Paul also tells believers: "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!" (2 Corinthians 5:17) Have you received this new life? What is your choice? Can others see Jesus in you? In God’s kingdom, what kind of vessel are you? What contributions are you making?
Response through Hymn:
Mold me Lord
https://youtu.be/Y4_5T2B-2KM?si=cQjBZZdSEH31C1dL
让人从我见耶稣
更像我恩主
Make me a blessing