Offered Humbly – Br. Luke Ditewig

SSJE Sermons

Br. Luke Ditewig

Aidan of Lindisfarne

1 Corinthians 9:16-23

In the seventh century, Aidan, a monk on Iona in Scotland, was sent to establish a monastery on Lindisfarne in northern England. Like Columba who led much missionary work out from Iona, Aidan led great evangelism from Lindisfarne.

Aiden sent monks out, two by two, into the neighboring villages and countryside. He gave two noteworthy instructions: First, travel on foot, not horseback. Second, do not carry a knife or any sort of weapon for defense. Travel then was very dangerous, so this was remarkable.

Aiden instructed ways to live like Jesus not simply speak about Jesus. Walking instead of riding, they went like their neighbors, as equals instead of with additional power and privilege. Without weapons to fight, they resisted violence with vulnerability. Aiden and his monks embodied the gospel, and they were well received. Offered humbly, good news spread quickly.

Paul wrote: “What then is my reward? Just this: that in my proclamation I may make the gospel free of charge, so as not to make full use of my rights in the gospel.” He speaks of being like Jews and other groups in order “win them” for Christ. Paul reached out to people on their own terms, in their own way, to point to Jesus.

Have you experienced people like Aiden and Paul? Who became like you in order to point you to Jesus? Who has welcomed you, curious, honoring your culture, background, and experience? Who has been humble and vulnerable? Give thanks for such people.

How we live is just as important if not more than what we say. Consider your life. How are you engaging others with humility and vulnerability? How might you be distanced with power and protection? What is the invitation for you? May we point to Jesus by how we live. Blessed Aidan whom we remember today.