The Harmony of Service and Contemplation: Augstine of Hippo

"No man has a right to lead such a life of contemplation as to forget in his own ease the service due his neighbor; nor has any man a right to be so immersed in active life as to neglect the contemplation of God."

          ~ Augustine of Hippo

 When I read that quote I couldn't help but think about the concept of balance...and how perhaps we are most useful and effective as individuals in our pursuits towards glorifying God  and manifesting His kingdom here on earth when we aren't one or the other extreme, but when we are holistically grounded in a balanced state of service and devotion.

I think we've all met (and perhaps have experienced this ourselves) people who are one or the other of either extreme. Who either seem to be a flurry of activity and service towards God, yet seem to be spiritually starved from lack of the manna God provides us through His Word or are perhaps buried in the pages of their Bible without ever looking up to see what is happening in the world around them.

My suggestion: Let's find ways to discipline ourselves to  honor our Soveriegn Lord with our heads, hearts and our hands. It's amazing meditating and experiencing God's presence, entering His Word and witnessing His living Word come to life...but may all of that prompt us to apply the insights, truths and wisdom God blesses us with.  

As God blesses us, may we bless others too. The New Testament is filled with Jesus displaying acts of service to others-extending himself with love and compassion and empathy. It is my prayer that as I progress in my walk and get to know God even more that He will reveal to me new ways in which I can serve Him and His people.

Heavenly Father,

Thank you so much for blessing us with the dawning of a new day. May we be filled with the joy and peace of your presence and as we enter your Word today, and your presence through prayer, may your Spirit stir within our hearts and speak to us new ways in which we can bring you glory through serving and helping your children. May you cause us to be bright lights shining in a dark world and may you help us to "to preach good news to the poor, to bind up the brokenhearted and proclaim freedom to the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners".

We love you, we praise you and give you all glory and honor.

In Jesus' name,

Amen