The Sweetest Frame
Young Edward's parents owned a local pub where some of the biggest hearted, sweetest and most giving people on earth could be found toasting a few each night. Ed would often be found playing in the streets just outside the watering hole; "left to his own devices" legend has it. But little Ed stayed out of trouble, learning to use his hands in cabinet making and for years paid the bills.
But Edward would no doubt find his true calling. For 26 years, he pastored the local Baptist church and was adored by his congregation. When the people he shepherded offered him the church as a gift, Edward famously replied, "I do not want the chapel, I only want the pulpit; and when I cease to preach Christ, then turn me out of that."
You may not be familiar with the story of Edward Mote. After all, he was born way back in 1797. But Edward had it right. He knew that despite his upbringing, God was calling him to something deeper and more meaningful, and he wanted everyone he encountered to know it.
Most scholars believe Edward was often talking about our physical body and other temporary gifts as examples of what NOT to trust in. Which is why I think Ed would fit in nicely at PrayFit. Or more appropriately, I think we'd all enjoy a seat in his old church. After all, we know the words to something he wrote:
My hope is built on nothing less
Than Jesus' blood and righteousness;
I dare not trust the sweetest frame,
But wholly lean on Jesus' name.
On Christ, the solid Rock, I stand;
All other ground is sinking sand.
Thanks Pastor. The pulpit is still yours.
I dare not trust the sweetest frame. Friends, may that be our default reaction this week. And if you know the song, sing it.
-Jimmy Peña
For Discussion: Is your hope built on solid ground? Aren't we glad that our hope isn't in the meals we prepped last night, or the training plan we've scheduled this week? (Or in the byproducts of what all of that produces?) If it were, we wouldn't be standing for long. Have a great week everyone. Let's pray together. Let's stand on solid ground as a family. What are you in need of prayer for, and let's go to the cross together.
