“Twist”

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May 25, 2014 by Jess

As we trudged down the hill in the low light of an autumn day, the twisted wire contrasted sharply with the lighted background.  

Here “twist” is the harsh and ugly barbed wire.  This a helpful tool in our land of farms.  A cheap form of fencing that effectively keeps the stock where they need to be.  In this case it keeps them from the reserve that now has a healthy and growing population of yellow-eyed penguins.

Regardless of its good job, however, is the harsh reality of those twisted barbs. They work exactly as it appears.  If one leans on them, you get a nasty and sharp jab and are reminded, much as the stock are, to keep clear.

I am reminded of the numerous warnings in the Bible of “twisted.”  These can be familiar in our very midst, but they have a harsh and damaging reality.

 

Pay careful attention to yourselves and to all the flock, in which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to care for the church of God, which he obtained with his own blood. I know that after my departure fierce wolves will come in among you, not sparing the flock; and from among your own selves will arise men speaking twisted things, to draw away the disciples after them. Therefore be alert, remembering that for three years I did not cease night or day to admonish every one with tears. And now I commend you to God and to the word of his grace, which is able to build you up and to give you the inheritance among all those who are sanctified. (Acts 20:28-32 ESV)

Praise God for Jesus, the word of His grace, our light in a dark place.  The one who paid the penalty for sins upon the cross, gifting his inheritance to those to be called children of God.  These have recognised their “twisted” hearts and entrusted themselves to Him as their salvation, and now walk with Him in the light.

 

 

that you may be blameless and innocent, children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and twisted generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world, (Philippians 2:15 ESV)

Today “twist” reminds me to steer clear of the sharp barbs of this twisted generation by keeping my eyes fixed firmly on Jesus, the light of the world.

This post is a response to the weekly wordpress photo challenge: “twist.”

© J.Smith Photography and ‘illuminating the invisible’ (2012-2014). Excerpts, images and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to J.Smith Photography and ‘illuminating the invisible’ with appropriate and specific direction to the original content. Unauthorised use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this blog’s creator and author is strictly prohibited.