No Borders: Galatians Series; Life in the Spirit - Tim Knipp

What matters is what
did not happen
when I checked in
with leaders
of the new church.

Daily life as usual in Galatia
had gone on 
pretty much the same 
with minor variations
until I arrived
with my 
mind-shifting news.
It was my privilege
to convert and baptize
hordes of you
before moving on.

As could be expected,
your reorientation
disrupted the daily rituals
and practices
you once cooperated with.
Many misunderstood
and whispered,
darting glances
like arrows.
Unlike exempted Jews,
your denial 
of pagan rites
could be seen as treason.
So you were ripe
for partial truths
disguised as answers:
"Three steps to exemption-status!"
"Do this and be safe!"

But beware
the forked tongues
that obscure deeper truths -
as if you could earn
God's favor and protection
by symbolic acts.
He is not a pagan god
who requires
sacrifice and outward 
exhibitions
before blessings
are yours.

When I presented 
my work before 
the disciples -
that of preaching
salvation by grace
and grace alone 
to the Gentiles -
I was applauded.
Not a word 
was spoken
about converts
needing to become
Jewish.
They understood
what you have not:
that all people are welcomed
into God's family now -
all skin colors, family origins,
linguistic variations
and cultures -
there are no borders
in the Christian kingdom
and visas are granted
to all who believe,
without qualification.

So do not be tripped up
by cultural preferences
disguised as requirements.
Open wide your arms
and embrace the 
holistic good news
and your kin
who may look,
speak and approach
worship differently
but who are your
brothers and sisters
nonetheless. 

Galatians 2: 1-10