Vision for Vision, Dust from Dust

Inspired by the Sermon “Now and Then” – Rev. John W. Wurster

That which we perceive in “the now” is so much different than what we will be able to perceive “then” … then, after our physical bodies have ceased.

I believe that all spirits are loved and chosen.  But do we choose back?  Do we not only love God but give ourselves to Him?

In any case, the sooner we begin this journey of transformation — and thus the farther we develop in “the now” … before the “then” – before our physical deaths —  the more useful we are to God in “the now”.

However, the way we are “then” – a state of spiritual attainment closer to God, and enhanced by God’s grace through Christ – this state of being more heavenly, comes sooner for prophets.

Prophets are chosen not only for their potential now, but also for what God sees when He views them “then”, in their fully developed spiritual form.  What is in them now is an internal spirit, a pupa still in its case, a seed that has been planted.

When they are chosen and begin to act in God’s will, their new state of being can be seen by others; they can be seen with an outward vision.  And so, what we see when we view them with this outward vision is their ability to see into us and into our futures … and their ability to speak to God and for God.

What God sees from an external viewpoint is viewed inwardly by the prophets when they begin to see themselves as God sees them.

When they begin to achieve and accept this inward vision of themselves and thus come to recognize God’s urgings — this is when they accept their Calling.

[That Sunday’s Sermon Texts were:  I Cor. 13:1-13 and Jer. 1:4-10]

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For we know in part, and we prophesy in part.

But when that which is perfect is come, then that which is in part shall be done away.

When I was a child, I spake as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child: but when I became a man, I put away childish things.

For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known.

I Cor. 13:9-12 (KJV)

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Then the word of the LORD came unto me, saying,

Before I formed thee in the belly I knew thee; and before thou camest forth out of the womb I sanctified thee, and I ordained thee a prophet unto the nations.

Then said I, Ah, Lord GOD! behold, I cannot speak: for I am a child.

But the LORD said unto me, Say not, I am a child: for thou shalt go to all that I shall send thee, and whatsoever I command thee thou shalt speak.

Be not afraid of their faces: for I am with thee to deliver thee, saith the LORD.

Jer. 1:4-8 (KJV)