Reflecting on where I am in life. I think that like me, most of us would want perfection in our family, but, it is an illusion, something just out of reach but no less yearned for. Like a wisp of smoke, you see it but when you try to grab it, there is nothing in your hand. There always seems to be something out of whack. I suspect a lot of families try not to think about loss – disappointment – broken relationships – unforgiveness – resentments – bitterness – heartache – everything that results from our fallen nature that seems to linger in our new life in Christ. I am sure you remember the story about Cornelius and his entire household being saved. (Acts 10). The story didn’t stop there. Those people went on to live out their lives. Like me, did you imagine that their lives were trouble-free after that day on or did you stop thinking about them when you read the next verse? Being trouble free while we live on this planet is an illusion – that puff of smoke I mentioned. Jesus said ......
“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have
peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the
world.” – John 16:33
We long for something that seems unattainable and so we often try
to pretend life is what it isn’t. Do you
ever feel the pressure to not let others know that you have problems in your
life. It is as if having problems
suggests that you are failing as a Christian.
When we are with Christians, rather than bear one another’s burdens
(Galatians 6:2) we hide our pain and struggles.
Have you ever asked someone how they are doing and were dismayed when
they actually told you more than “Fine!” or “I am blessed!”
There are moments – some days – when it appears that all is well
and then comes the spoiler – a person or event that puts a blemish on what
would have been a perfect day. Oh that this life could be perfect. But as I struggle to not let “reality” dampen
my spirits, I am reminded that what I experience is exactly why we all need a
Savior. The matter of the fact is that
we will never experience perfection of any kind on this earth. It will always be just out of reach. But one day.
I was thinking about the Beatles song “Imagine”. That song was about an idyllic world – free
from trouble. Free from God and
Jesus. Those guys went on a spiritual
journey looking for it – looking for love and peace in all the wrong
places. The answer was and is
Jesus. You have the family that you
have. Your family is your first place of
ministry. No matter what imperfections
may prevail, your place is to show them what Jesus looks like by the way you
live your life in the midst of their and your imperfections. But you can’t do
it on your own! Be filled with the Spirit.
Draw close to Jesus and let your light shine.
Think about it – Pray about it – Believe it –
Walk in it. Let your light shine and give God the glory.
By Faith Alone By His Grace Alone And For His
Glory Alone
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