I’m reading student papers on N. T. Wright’s Simply Jesus, which isn’t easy when it’s absolutely lovely outside.  Coming across passages like the following (used with permission) moves the task in the direction of something like worship:

Jesus launched God’s kingdom project, fought and won the victory that humans were unable to win, and now directs God’s project from his throne in heaven, working again, through human beings.  I experienced this kingdom power firsthand, and it changed my life.  In the midst of a painful divorce (is there any other kind?), unemployed and facing bankruptcy, “the church” intervened on my behalf.  I experienced the present reality of the kingdom when people prayed over me, mourned with me, gave me a place to live, provided for my needs, and gave me hope and encouragement.  I see it today in the church when we sponsor a mobile food truck, sharing a meal with our neighbors, helping them with groceries, and praying with them before they leave.  Or when my small group serves meals at a soup kitchen or visits a local nursing home to sing songs, listen to stories, and share the gospel.

Amen.