Living Above The Fray/Below The Radar

 Living Above The Fray/Below The Radar


It seems to me, that the ideal place for a Christian to be in culture, is *outside* of (or "above") the chaotic rancor of society's seemingly-interminable "web" of argumentation and division; and also *outside* of (or "below") the "detection devices" of social media (and other) "look-outs."  This place and perspective is especially sweet for the church's Christ-called shepherds, who do not need to be wastefully entangled in the world's snares.

 

It is always intriguing to me how our blessed Lord Jesus Christ Himself, and all of His original disciples (especially Paul) escaped these traps.  Obviously, a big part of this was simply the grace of God; but it is also the case that this grace worked through God's servants in such a way, that they did not *seek* out unnecessary attention and acclaim.

 

Because of this, the Lord Jesus, Paul, and the other apostles were able to concentrate on what really mattered: the Person of the Messiah, His gospel of pure and free grace, and God's church (the redeemed community of the kingdom of love).

 

Anonymity and obscurity become our friends--as they shield us from unhealthy desires and aspirations.  If God ever wishes to make us "well-known," it is a singular blessing, if this happens *after* we join the saints in the church triumphant (heaven).  There are (obviously) exceptions to this rule; and we do not deny that civil servants (for instance) who claim the Name of Jesus, are almost guaranteed to be denied this inconspicuousness.  (It is also true, that some church leaders also get cast into the spotlight of the world--but the best among them would rather be free of it.)

 

So, today, if you feel like nobody out there "knows" who you are--count this as a blessing.  Remember: we are of no account whatsoever; the Only One who matters is our Lord Jesus Christ.

 

John the Baptist's words are to be ours, as well.  Here is what he said, in Jn. 3:30: "[Jesus] must increase, but I must decrease," (ESV).

 

Rev. Mark J. Henninger

Treatise #74

25 February 2026

https://theologicaltreatisesinretirement.blogspot.com

https://henningerdevotions.blogspot.com/

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