God's foolishness

Today we read about the foolishness of God in the One Year Bible reading from 1 Corinthians 1:18-2:5.

Paul tells us that the cross is foolishness to those who don't believe. And that the cross of Christ IS God's foolishness. But that His foolishness is wiser than the greatest of man's wisdom.

The phrase "method in the madness" comes to mind. Yes, what God did in coming to us in the person of Jesus and dying on the cross was an act of extreme humility and seeming foolhardiness. What God could do such a thing? The angels scratched their heads at such nonsense. It is even thought that Satan and his followers left because of this great scandal, caused by Jesus becoming one of us.

But the foolishness of God makes sense when you think of what it's like to be in love. When you're in love with someone, you will do literally ANYTHING for them. You will act like a fool. You will cast yourself into shame and humiliation. Nothing is too hard or too low. For love, even MEN will do great things.

And so it is with God. Though it's impossible for our human minds to grasp it fully, God is so in love with us that He has done - and will do - scandalous things to demonstrate that love. To win us back. To bring us back from the depths to which we've flung ourselves in sin and shame. Because He loves us THAT MUCH.

And so when you look at your life, sometimes it might be difficult to make sense of it. It might seem strange, especially if you're following Jesus. Because He didn't stop doing "foolish" things at Calvary. He still does foolish things in and through the lives of His children today. Don't be surprised if following Jesus puzzles you. But just remember - His foolishness will always be greater than your best wisdom.

God, thank You for Your foolishness. And for loving us so much that You continue to act foolishly.