It’s very easy to be critical.
Very easy. I’m a master at the art. If I stick around something long enough and I can carefully go about showing just how bad the thing is.
Over the years I’ve understood that this practice is very limiting in its capacity to bring about the real joy of living. I’m learning to quit the habit and look for the solution in the situation, even if that solution is to not focus on the thing anymore.
Over the weekend I was really impressed by the desire among the brothers and sisters there to be found faithful. Regardless of their position in life, there was a sincere and humble recognition that above all, Jesus is looking for those who will remain faithful. Despite past failings and oversight, there was such a refreshing approach that there is still an opportunity now. Today is still a good time.
Today is a good time to be faithful. Today is a good time to witness others be faithful. Faithful to God and as a result faithful in their key relationships and faithful to the cause that Christ has called them towards – the cause of the Kingdom.
Pointing out what’s wrong should be balanced by pointing out what can be done by the grace of God. Showing up the flawed and failing should then lead to how God our Peace leads us into ways pleasing to Him. The only way to please Him is by faith. As we learn to walk that way, so others can tag along and fund us faithful.
It’s so reassuring to know that there remains those who have not compromised their stance, who are aware of the conflict, and have staked their claim to fight for righteousness and holiness. Those who know that the fight is not physical or personal, but see beyond and so address the issue with the spiritual weapons at our disposal.
Those who get knocked down, but by God’s grace get back up again, and are supported up again by loving and caring fellow-warriors who know what it is to get knocked down, but still hold onto the truth that the warfare is one that is won.
As a result they can make peace, love their enemies, shine the light of Jesus at home, at work, at play … even in church gatherings.
I look to these faithful and pledge my allegiance to Christ and look to Him the author and finisher of my faith, to walk in those faithful footsteps.
For His Name’s Sake
Shalom
C. L. J. Dryden
Life With CD 