Cornerstone

The concept of separation can have either a negative or a positive connotation. If separation is perceived as being deprived of something desirable then it would be considered negative. If it was perceived as isolated so that it caused the individual to be ineffective disallowing a purpose for life then it would be thought as detrimental to the person’s well-being. On the other hand, if separation is perceived as allowing the individual to be a part of an elite group so that their focus is not obscured or their efforts diverted then it would have a positive connotation. When we consider separation coupled with holy living it can take on either a negative or a positive connotation. What is the reason a person is separated in the holy life? Are we to isolate ourselves from the world like a monk in a monastery? Do we separate ourselves so that we can keep aloof from those who do not meet our standard of dress or behavior? Do we separate ourselves because we think that we might be polluted by any association with those who are not holy? Do we separate ourselves because we are secretly afraid that we are inadequate to cope with the questions that the sinner might ask about our beliefs or lifestyle? Do we separate ourselves from the world because we don’t really want to be bothered by people who don’t agree with the life that we live? What is our motive for living the separated life? Is it possible to obey the scriptural directions carefully about the separated life in such a way that we are wrong?

By Dr. Gayle Woods

Luke 2:15

When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.”
The baby God was sought by the humble. The high point in the lives of the shepherds up to this time probably was when they happened to see a caravan of some important Roman figure traveling through their territory under heavy Roman guard. They could only watch warily from the crags of the distant hills as the procession passed. They never would have considered coming close to see and speak to the dignitary.

Yes, this night caused their head to spin. They were already rehearsing the story they would tell as their families gathered around them in their humble abode. Who could believe it? The brilliance of the Angel . . . the thunderous melody as the heavenly choir said, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men” (v. 14) left them quivering with excitement.
Now they were going to look for the baby God. He was the King of kings and the Lord of Lord. For a reason beyond their understanding they had been chosen to visit Him first. God seems to give honor to the humble. They expected nothing and yet they received a Christmas gift that out shines any that could be given.
Maybe it is true that it is closer to heaven when you are on your knees.

Dr. Gayle Woods