The way we live, worship and find purpose has a lot to do with the way we perceive God.
At times when our own inner critic is telling us how unworthy we are or when nothing seems to be going according to plan, there is a temptation to slip into an “Old Testament” way of thinking. We focus on our brokenness, or we convince ourselves
that God is coldly punishing us for whatever it is we have done or failed to do. God feels distant, harsh, scary, maybe totally unapproachable. The product of such a state is a rigid obedience to God simply to appease God. But it feels lifeless and devoid of hope.
Then there are times when we are gratefully aware that Jesus is present. We may well remember our shortcomings, but we are also mindful of Jesus' forgiveness and grace, which
help us live differently. In Jesus' company, we notice the many gifts in the day – a beautiful sunrise, a kind word from a friend, a sense of purpose in what we offer the world, and so on. God feels incredibly close, and we welcome this intimacy. It feels sustaining and filled with hope.
This change is not because we are more deserving one day than another. The change comes when we focus on what Jesus brings. Jesus enables us to see
God for who God truly is: love. Jesus also allows us to see who we truly are – loved and welcomed by God.
What is capturing your focus at this time? Is it life-giving, sustaining, and hope-filled?
Is there anything you want to say to Jesus about this?
Reflections by Cherie-Lynn van der Merwe
