O Brother/Sister “Where art thou?”
Matthew 6:21-28; Genesis 4:2-16; Luke 15:1-7; Acts 9
December 22,2000 Touchstone Studios opened a movie “O Brother where art thou”. A movie loosely mirroring the writing of Homer the Odyssey and heavy dose of folk or bluegrass music. The setting is 1930’s Mississippi prison escapees. During this journey there are four quotes that carry a element of faith which answer the question O brother/sister where art thou.
First quote: “Do not seek the treasure!” Matthew 6:21-28; Luke 12:34
Treasures stored up in this life is at best temporary. Treasures can become a focus for living will darken a person’s concern about eternal things. Treasures on earth distract from the Kingdom of God. Treasures can easily become our master and a person becomes a servant or slave to greed. Treasures is where our focus will be.
Second quote: “We are in a tight spot.” Genesis 4:2-16
Offering: Able thoughtfully gave one of the first-born animal and fat. Cain picked veggies. Observation: God looked with favor on Able’s offering. Cain’s offering was not viewed with favor. Objection: Cain’s offering was not favored because it was veggies, but was because of the carelessness with which he made the offering. Motivation and attitude are important. Outcome: Cain became angry not with God but Able. Obstacle for Cain: His anger and depression created an opportunity for evil. “Sin was crouching at the door”. Offer of God: “You must master it.”
Third quote: “Looks like I’m the only one unaffiliated”. Luke 15:1-7
Complaining Pharisees: Jesus is hanging out with sinners. Connects the Pharisees to a need: Suppose one of you lose a sheep. Constant search: Celebration when THE ONE is found.Comparison: That’s what happens in heaven with a lost soul finds in Jesus’ forgiveness and an eternal relationship with God.
Fourth quote: “He’s changed into a toad. Acts 9:1-21
Saul a man expressing hate for Jesus followers. Saul a purposed man. Saul a confronted man. Saul a man who recognized the Lord. Saul led blind to a place waiting. Saul call and anointed by God to preach and write for God.
Here is the great news: God sent Jesus to reach out to you in love to provide forgiveness and eternal relationship with God. You can be changed not a toad into a saint of God. Brother/sister in Christ where are you and how are you serving God in this Church in this community. You are called and gifted by God to serve