PPC.Paul.9
Tuesday, September 29, 2015
Message From Mars
On Friday, Bob, Gregg and Sherry blogged about Paul's message to the Ephesians, a community obsessed by material wealth, telling the Ephesians that much greater wealth is found in God's love.
On Monday, Doug and Jan blogged about Paul's message to the Corinthians, a community divided by conflicts and loose morals, that their behavior could lead to destruction of the church.
Today, we visited sites where Athenians once worshipped Zeus, Athena and other pagan gods, including an "unnamed God." We stood beside 83 million tons of marble that comprised the 5th Century B.C. Parthenon. Next to the Parthenon, on a high rock called Mars Hill, we read Paul's message to the people of Athens. He explained that their unknown god was, in fact the same God that we worship, "who gives everyone life and breath and everything else." We urge you to read Acts 17, vs. 22-34.
Our trip today included the spectacular new Athens Acropolis Museum which houses many facades, sculptures and works of art from the Parthenon and the Temple of Athena, built more than four hundred years before the birth of Christ, a pagan temple that for a time was converted to a church. And, of course, on Mars Hill earlier today we received the "Message from Mars."
As pilgrims, we have followed the footsteps of Paul. We have stood where he stood only decades after the death and resurrection of Christ. Paul's messages have taught us, challenged us, and inspired us, both as a church community and in many personal ways.
We also have had much fun, met fascinating people, and learned more about different cultures. We have viewed spectacular landscapes, seascapes, ancient buildings, archeological sites, and enjoyed our time together. One person, like Paul, who is inspired by Christ and empowered by God, even with little or no resources, can change lives.
Each of us, and our church can also make a difference today. It all starts with a solid theology based on our Bible.
Linus tells us how.
Grace and Peace to all,
Nels Ackerson and Charlie Nahabedian
