“For I know the plans I have for you…They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope. In those days when you pray, I will listen. If you look for me wholeheartedly, you will find me. I will be found by you,” says the Lord. “I will end your captivity and restore your fortunes.”
Jeremiah 29:11-14a NLT
When I read Jeremiah’s words I can only imagine plans limited to an impact on my pilgrimage on this earth. Yet, I believe all of life is best framed against the backdrop of eternity. Hence, any quibble I have with my perspective of ‘disaster’ this side of the grave is to lose sight of my true purpose as a child of God. I only make sense of life within the context of God’s purpose. Humbling in that my primary response to God is repentance and faith.
Of course, when disaster strikes our knee-jerk reaction can be, “Why me?” I was told recently of someone who received a terminal diagnosis yet resisted the cry of “Why me?”, recalling that having done well at work, retired early and enjoying a generous pension, at no previous transition point had he demanded of God, “Why me?” Hard though it was, he chose to set that question aside.
Once I choose to set my horizon on the other side of death, I can begin to see more clearly. All of my mortal life is a continuous process of being formed into who God desires I become. Throughout my mortal years I remain only partially formed, awaiting God’s summons home, where I’ll be complete. My challenge is in keeping my eye on the ball. All too easy to become distracted by some aspiration born of my own imagination.
Recalling apparent disasters can distract your attention from God and may well harden your heart towards him. You are created for eternity, so even apparent disaster in this life is a source of growth and hope.
QUESTION
Do you feel a sense of rising injustice within you or are you at peace?
PRAYER
Help me to lift my gaze to you, God. I repent of selfish distractions and resume my journey in search of your best for my life.
Photo – Whitby Abbey
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