" Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame,and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and loose heart." Hebrews 12:1-3 (NIV)
When I first asked Jesus into my heart I had an unmeasurable joy! My whole life centered around pleasing God. As time went on it seemed as though "other goals," pulled my focus from Jesus. It started out with, "Please Lord, will you please give a mate, and if we could just get married; I'll be happy." From there it was, "Lord, if we could just have a baby boy." After Michael was born, "Lord, could I please have a baby girl too."
God was so kind, he more than granted my request. Why does it take us so long to finally realize, all I ever really needed was and is, Jesus? As I think back to some of those request, especially the selfish material things I've asked for over the years, they were not necessary. In fact some of those things like boats, cars and even houses have weighed us down in debt I wish I'd never ask for.
Yesterday as I was washing my car I imagined some of those very witnesses in heaven, like my mother in law and Grandpa Mason. If they were looking down, I'm sure they were laughing. If they had a conversation it might have went something like this:
Smirking Grandpa might have said, "There's our Kacker, washing that pearl Park Avenue she always wanted. How well, does she like it now, after making all those payments? "
Grinning from ear to ear my mother-in-law might have said, "She and Mark always thought that would be their ultimate dream car. I've heard Mark cuss it more than once. Do you think they've learned, Jesus is the only true satisfaction in life yet?"
I'm sure Jesus laughs at us as well. We quickly find out the payments and flaws of "the things we want," which almost always disappoint and fail us. Then there are the hard knocks that go along with things.
"My son do not make light of the Lord's discipline, and do not loose heart when he rebukes you, because the Lord disciplines those he loves, and he punishes everyone he accepts as a son. Endure hardship as discipline; God is treating you as sons. For what son is not disciplined by his father?" Hebrews 12:5-7 (NIV)
As I cleaned my car I thought about how loving and patient God the Father is with each of his children. I've been blessed with the lessons and love, I continually have from God. I am so thankful that he continues to love and draw me back to his love and forgiveness even when I fail to see what's really best.
"Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said,
"Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you."
So we say with confidence,
"The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can man do to me?" Hebrews 13:5 & 6 (NIV)
Maybe, Jesus easily empathise with our immature ways and poor choices because he has lived among sinners. He knows our need for his grace He's our creator and sustainer. The author and perfector of our faith! What an awesome God we have!
