June 16, 2024 - Proverbs 12-15

As we prepare to gather as God’s people, this morning, a couple of Solomon’s proverbs seem particularly appropriate.  “Whoever walks with the wise becomes wise, but the companion of fools will suffer harm” (13:20) & “Leave the presence of a fool, for there you do not meet words of knowledge” (14:7).  A proverb of our own comes quickly to mind, an old saying about “the company we keep.”

In an article, earlier this week, Kayla Bartsch writes, in “Sociology Comes for Sundays:” There is a positive feedback loop between church attendance and faith. Willing yourself to be part of a community — i.e., showing up — means that you will, over time, be shaped in the likeness of that body.

We become like those with whom we associated.  It’s a given!

And those who associate with the people of God become like them and, ultimately, like God himself.  After all, to be a genuine part of the church means to be with God.  “And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit” (2 Corinthians 3:18).

Earthly pleasures vainly call me;

I would be like Jesus;

Nothing worldly shall enthrall me,

I would be like Jesus.

Be like Jesus - this my song,

In the home and in the throng;

Be like Jesus, all day long,

I would be like Jesus.   -- James Rowe (1913)