I must admit that I am caught up in the December rush. In between teaching classes, fighting crowds at the malls, or trying to reach out to all the people on my "Christmas card list", I will frequently forget to take time out of my day for reflection--reflection on the profound reason for the season (not to use an over used saying,but...)--but to reflect on God's ultimate wisdom in sending His son here to us on earth. On a personal level, I also reflect on the profound effect that He has had on my life--taking me from a life of sin, hopelessness, and pain to one that reflects His grace.
I also need to pause in order to reflect on the truth that I don't provide an idea reflection of the grace that God gives us. I am a flawed man, but (in the words of the apostle Paul), this one thing I do...I don't give up. No matter how many times I get knocked down, I keep getting up to run towards the author of my salvation. I strive to be Christ-like. I strive to be as loving as Christ. I strive to pass that on to others. But the reality is that at the end of the day, I'm a frequently fail at my tasks. I am shocked at how self centered, critical, and sharp tongued I can be.
If that were the end of the story, I would be in deep kim chi. Praise God that it is not! The reality is that as a maturing Christian, I no longer define myself by my sin or the sin committed against me, but by who God declares me to be.
I would encourage you that in the midst of crowded shops, screaming infants, rude clerks, irate drivers, and difficult family members, find time to reflect on Jesus, His significance not only to this world, but on a personal level in your own life. Focus on what He says about you. Focus on what He says about the destiny that the Father has given you. sit with that a while...
In His Grace,
Mark
