Third Sunday in Lent
Scripture: 1 Corinthians 10:1-13

Reflection

The word Rock is used in the scriptures as metaphor signifying strength, steadiness, and durability. It was used in a variety of ways, conveying an impression of the unwavering character of God as well as the need for spiritual solidarity in the foundation and structure of our own lives. Paul explained that the children of Israel under the leadership of Moses “drank of that spiritual rock that followed them: and that Rock was Christ.” (1 Cor. 10:4.)

Now, the scripture in Corinthians 10: 1-13, was written for our admonition. It tells us that they were overtaken by their idolatrous desires and sexual immorality, which had immediate consequences. Therefore God wasn’t pleased with them, even though they experienced the same spiritual blessing as we did (i.e. “They all ate the same spiritual food and drank the same spiritual drink” -1 Cor 10:3-4).

These people had so much of God, and even saw God perform miracles through Moses. Imagine thousands of people with the Lord going ahead of them in a pillar of cloud by day (Exodus 13:21), experiencing the parting of the Red Sea, and being fed with manna. All these were mind-blowing, creative miracles. Yet it was easy for them to disbelieve God, forgetting what God had done for them. Christ was with them yet they didn’t know.

The bible tells us that these things were examples to us,so we do not lust after evil things like they did. “Let him that thinks that he stand, let him take heed least he falls. Sometimes we become so familar with the things of God while serving, that we make simple his grace unto us. When you think you are the most righteous take heed because our righteousness is in Christ Jesus. Boast less of your achievement, and resist the temptation of your lustful desires, lest you prepare yourself for a downfall.

We should not glory in our own efforts to stand firm in God. Instead, we should look unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith (Hebrews 12:2), for our righteousness is through faith in Christ Jesus (Romans 3:22). Although Christ the rock accompanied the Israelites, they were overcome by their sinful desires. This example reminds us that when we lose focus on Christ, we give room for ungodly desires to arise. Let us stand on the gospel of Christ, a rock and a sure foundation upon which we can stand firm and blameless.

– Anoke Faith Blessing, The Student Christian Movement World Student Christian Federation in Nigeria, an Ecumenical Partner

Prayer
We believe that our firmness and righteousness in God is through faith in our Lord Jesus, and we ask that He keeps us on the right path. Preserve us until the day of His second coming.