It takes more than just an antler to make an antler pen. Something new must be introduced into the prepared antler; the tip, center band, clip, and upper cap must be attached. Most importantly the twist mechanism and ink cartridge must be inserted. Without these pen parts, you only have two polished, hollow pieces of antler. It is what is inserted into the antler that makes it a pen.
This makes me think of my own efforts as I have tried to live the Christian life. I have tried to clean up the outside by going to the right places and doing the right things. But until God changed my heart, I may have been polished on the outside but I was hollow on the inside. In Matthew 23 Jesus harshly criticizes the religious leaders. Eugene Peterson’s “The Message” says, “Be careful about following (the religion scholars and Pharisees). They talk a good line, but they don't live it. They don't take it into their hearts and live it out in their behavior. It's all spit-and-polish veneer.” Jesus’ term for them was whitewashed graves! Paul warns in 2 Timothy 3:2-5 about those who have “form of godliness but (deny) its power.”
A person trying to live the Christian life without Christ is like polished, hollow pieces of antler. They can no more become a Christian, apart from the introduction of Christ into their lives, than antlers can become pens without the introduction of the pen parts!
Meditation Starters:
Am I trying to live the Christian life in my own strength?
Am I like those who have a “form of godliness but deny its power”?
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