In this past Sunday's sermon, Pastor Althea spoke on the importance of our lives being shaped by God's image. After our experience of being born into the family of God, we then begin a life-long journey of growing ever nearer to Christ. And, as part of that journey, our Lord calls us to be a reflection of His image and likeness.
Our pastor urged us to obey the call of God to "put off" and "put behind" things which are in opposition to His will:
- put off earthly ways of sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires, and greed;
- put behind the things that hold us captive: anger, rage, malice, slander, and filthy language.
Sadly, though, these things are alive and well in the church. Why do they continue to show up? Because they continue to be fed.
And, here is where the concept of wantonness comes in. Sin seeks partnership. From as early as Eve and Adam, there has been a tendency in mankind to ask others to participate in the pursuit of sin. It is a wanton act: though the person knows that such action leads to the pain of eternal separation from God and the suffering of eternal torment, he or she nonetheless continues to lead others into the path whose end is utter loss.
What a contrast from the acts of authentic worship, where the Christian gladly surrenders every urge and agenda to the Lord of glory.
"All to Jesus I surrender..." Yes, Lord. Even my wantonness.
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