Renewal

Is there a place that you have visited that when you were there, the air seemed fresher and the colors more bold? The food had more taste? You were able to think more clearly? Your perspective was re-calibrated? A place where you felt more alive than at any other time?

And isn't it true that when we experience it once it is something to which we long to return? There's something overwhelmingly "right" about that experience. It's as if at that moment life is exactly as it was meant to be. The sense of freedom is intoxicating!

But life doesn't remain in this state, does it? Those fleeting moments where life is as we thought it was designed to be is all too quickly replaced with tension, frustration and a sense that this life is not all it's cracked up to be.

I was with a friend recently who has gone through a very dark time in his life and continues to be in a time of great challenge. Many events outside of his control have destroyed the reality which he knew and hoped for. There have been decisions made by people in power around him which have been anything but just and life giving.

As I listened to his story I realize that within each of us we have a sense of what is right, how life "should" progress. We have the ability to see beauty and life. But too often in this life we must deal with a reality that is far from this picture of beauty and goodness. We must deal with disappointments, frustrations, and the sinful world in which we live.

While he shared his story I heard him share a reality that is so foreign to many of us. He began to describe how his hope and trust in the goodness of God, in the midst of this dark time, has grown and developed. He shared that he believes that if God wants to use "discipline" to draw him to the heart of Christ, he is willing to walk whatever journey he must walk, because he does believe God will be faithful to reward him and bless him, maybe in this life, but surly in the life of eternity.

As I listened to him I was reminded of the truth that Jesus never guaranteed an easy or comfortable existence on this earth. He never says that as long as we claim his name life will turn out exactly like we believe it should. Rather, he promises there will be trials of many kinds, there will be disappointments and there will be the effects of sin. In all these, he is worthy of our love and trust. We are to be obedient and faithful.

Oh, God, renew my heart. Lift my eyes that I may see you through pain, injustice, attack and frustration. Renew my spirit when I want to give up. Give me clarity when I walk through the darkness. Help me keep my eyes on you when there are diversions all around. Increase my trust in your goodness. Remind me of your love. Give me the strength to persevere when my will becomes weak. And in all ways may your name be glorified.