Do not be deceived. There is only way in and this isn't it.I wish I could read the sign over this would-be door. Was there once a door that's since been closed over? Was the awning put up and stairs built with the intention of opening a door later? Either way, this is like the work of deceitful workmen masquerading as apostles of Christ. (2 Corinthians 11)
There are plenty of distractions in this world, promises of heaven, of saving grace. Worse, there are plenty of folks who will lead you to believe a feel-good philosophy. This kind of faith shrivels in the reality of life's trials. I've seen people turn from God in times of trouble, falling under the mistaken belief that bad things shouldn't happen to good people. It can be disconcerting. But it is wrong to think that God owes us anything, much less an explanation for His mysteries. If that is our expectation, we might as well stand on the stoop and face the wall expecting a door to magically appear. Instead, we have to trust.
Jesus tells us "Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God; trust also in me. In my Father's house are many rooms...I am going there to prepare a place for you...I will come back and take you to be with me...I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me." (John 14:1-6)
The early followers of Christ, the beginning of the Church as we know it today, were referred to as followers of "The Way." The way of the LORD. The way of the Spirit. We have received the Spirit and the Spirit intercedes for us, showing us the way. Ironically, our society's tendency to place such high value on independence is counter to the direction to be dependent. If we rely on ourselves, remaining independent, we will miss out on the glory of what remains beyond our imagination. "'No eye has seen, no ear has heard, no mind has conceived what God has prepared for those who love him' but God has revealed it to us by his Spirit." (1 Corinthians 2:9-10)
God, Help us to seek your way. Help us to discern by your Spirit so we may see, hear and imagine what you have prepared for us. Save us from "false doors" that distract us from life with you.
Amen.
2 comments:
That was practically a continuance of the theme and meaning of tonight's meeting of our retreat team.
No coincidence. We also focused on 'living in the moment' vs. trying to control the future.
Just can't say I share your curiosity with odd architecture. Ahem.
(hand-over-mouth chkl.) Barbara
I keep finding myself guffawing as I realize God is orchestrating some of my reading material. The timing of passages I'm touching on in the "read the Bible in a year" relative to the Esther Bible study is a great example.
And someday I'll run out of funny building photos, then I don't know what I'll do for my thought-provoking Monday commentaries. *sigh*
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