Embarassing The Kingdom of God

The question was asked: "Is there anything in your life that , if brought to the light, would cause embarrassment for the Kingdom?" Fortunately, the person being questioned could answer a NO to that question. But the question caused some reflection on my part. What causes embarassment to the Kingdom anyway? Does our human frailty and ability to sin really cause embarassment or is it how we handle our sin and frailty? Do people really expect believers to be sin free? Is it our responsibility to protect the Kingdom from embarassment or is it to simply flesh out the Kingdom in our daily lives?

My reading of the New Testament leaves me with a certainty. We are a mess. They were a mess. Paul had to rebuke the Corinthians for getting drunk at the celebration of the Lord's Supper. In fact, not only were some getting drunk but others were gorging on the food and making it impossible for others to have even a taste. Now, that's a sin.

Here is an interesting observation from my own life. When I admit to my weaknesses and failures in a sermon, it seems that people respond very positively to that honesty and even find hope for themselves when they realize that I am still forging ahead in spite of my failures. I remember, as a young pastor, thinking that I had to have it all together: a great prayer and devotional life, no sins, sweet spirit, strong witnessing, and a whole host of expectations that would exhaust me to even think about now.

When I read that Jesus came to us full of grace and truth, I find myself wondering if we are missing something. We understand grace for salvation alright. But what about grace for the daily grind? Do we not need grace daily in our lives? Is salvation an event or a process? Are we being saved? If so, do we not need grace every day?

Now, I know the argument that follows any serious discussion of grace. We are going to create a weakened Gospel with too much focus on grace. People will get the impression that sin is no big deal. Carelessness and spiritual sloth will result. But I wonder. Has the law ever given anyone strength? Have you ever done better because you worried about embarassing the Kingdom by your sins or failures? I haven't. In fact, just the opposite. Preoccupation with sin leads to sin. Worrying about how well I am doing does not strengthen me at all. It puts the focus on me and when that happens it is hard to walk in the Spirit. I tend to walk in the flesh when I get into spiritual navel-gazing.

But when I experience His overwhelming grace, I find the ensuing gratitude the most motivating force in my life. Worrying that I may cause embarassment to the Kingdom is not helpful. Expressing the Kingdom of Grace and experiencing the Kingdom of Grace is very helpful.

I wonder if people would be a whole lot more impressed with us if we were just honest about sin and failure. It happens. Let's not get all excited about it. God's grace and mercy, forgiveness and peace are available 24/7. Would we live better in the freedom to be honest and open about our weaknesses and flaws? At least I think so. What do you think?