He said to them, Therefore every ^[a]teacher and interpreter of the Sacred Writings who has been instructed about and trained for the kingdom of heaven and has ^[b]become a disciple is like a householder who brings forth out of his storehouse treasure that is new and [treasure that is] old [the fresh as well as the familiar].

Over the past number of years I’ve wrestled with walking out the future in the present while honoring and building upon the past. Sometimes in the church world we get stuck in the arena of “we’ve always done it this way.” Anyone who knows me knows I love change. I love forward movement. I love trying something new. But I’ve also learned the incredible importance of celebrating the present and honoring and building upon the past. This verse reenforces that God’s Kingdom isn’t just about the latest thing or the newest revelation (be it a new way of doing something or a prophetic utterance in charismatic circles) it’s a blend of the new and the old. The truths and values that have brought us to this place. As we move forward to do so with a firm grasp on the foundations laid in the past.

I’ve been watching Shredded Wheat’s latest advertising campaign (well worth a visit to www.thepalaceoflight.com) and appreciated the new and the old coming together in some very creative and amusing ways. As we build forward lets be creative, culturally relevant and engaging, but lets make sure we bring out the old and the new treasures.

16 Look, I’ve written your names on the backs of my hands.  The walls you’re rebuilding are never out of my sight. 17 Your builders are faster than your wreckers.  The demolition crews are gone for good. 18 Look up, look around, look well! See them all gathering, coming to you? As sure as I am the living God”—God’s Decree— “you’re going to put them on like so much jewelry, you’re going to use them to dress up like a bride. 19 “And your ruined land? Your devastated, decimated land? Filled with more people than you know what to do with! And your barbarian enemies, a fading memory. 20 The children born in your exile will be saying, ‘It’s getting too crowded here. I need more room.’ 21 And you’ll say to yourself, ‘Where on earth did these children come from? I lost everything, had nothing, was exiled and penniless.  So who reared these children? How did these children get here?’” 22 The Master, God, says: “Look! I signal to the nations, I raise my flag to summon the people.”

I’ve learned alot about finding color bearers over the past couple of years… Those who understand and own the mission and can lead the charge with others are vital I beleive to the success of any organization, church or business. I don’t think it’s possible to advance long term without color bearers. I appreciate those who are carry the flag in battlefield.