A Different Perspective On Lukewarm

"I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot. I wish you were either one or the other! So, because you are lukewarm—neither hot nor cold—I am about to spit you out of my mouth."

Rev. 3:15, 16

This verse is famous for the fear it grips in the heart of sincere believers.  Usually, the application is  regarding the temperature of water or something to drink. Some years back, I had a different thought.

Wouldn't it be more appropriate to consider the effects of lukewarmness in something perishable, like meat, for instance? To be preserved, it must be kept cold or hot.  Long term exposure at room temperature will render it spoiled. The stench of neglect will fill the room and the thought of ingesting it is unthinkable. While spitting out lukewarm water seems harsh, expelling bad meat is reflexive and completely understandable. 

Before we run to our Bibles or let condemnation settle into its established religious groove, let's consider what our souls truly need. I don't believe it's increased spiritual calisthenics, added to the pile of already burdened religious duty. Who needs more of that? How could we ever pray enough or do enough or even keep ourselves in life? Do we generate God's life within our hearts by doing "religious" things? I don't think so.  

The key is simply keeping our souls in the love of God. A love that is perfect and without selfish motives. A love that doesn't compare itself to others or measure its worth by outward activity or the things one does as "ministry."  A love that remembers Him with a heart that flexes the muscle of gratefulness,  able to remain a humble recipient of endless mercy and grace.   All the way to the end.