“I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened, so that you will know what is the hope of His calling, what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints…” (Ephesians 1:18 NASB)
Every day since I downloaded this certain app to find cheap deals or better yet, to find some clearly free stuff, I get multiple messages a day by individuals living in “my area.” The messages are like an abstract picture, a hodgepodge of emails containing a variety of topics, such as lost pets, found pets, clean-up our area appeals, cars parked on the street too long, my house news, mail delivery, and much more. I’m sure a lot of people see something in this “abstract” that is of interest to them. Yet, for others, they respond, “What is this?” Their response is much like the visitor to an art gallery who stands starring at a contemporary abstract painting, determined to derive meaning and to see a definite thought that the artist is trying to convey
Let’s get back to the app that has a message every other hour or perhaps a shorter duration at times. It’s not even 5:00 a.m. and I have already got a report of a runaway cat that bolted away for freedom. The cat probably was singing, purring out a familiar song, “We Shall Overcome,” knowing that we are approaching a holiday named after a great civil rights leader. I wonder if I could get away with responding to some of these messages, suggesting that instead of writing about lost animals, perhaps the writer should go a little further and talk about lost sheep, the lost coins, and lost, prodigal sons. Could I get away with responding, “Instead of appealing to people to clean up their areas, wouldn’t it be more productive if you appeal to people to consider their ways or to make sure their children live clean lives, bringing them up in the fear and admonition of the Lord?” And instead of cars parked on the street too long, I would propose they write a message that speaks of pressing on toward the mark and avoid living a status quo spiritual life; concluding with “You have been parked on Sin Avenue far too long.” Oh, I could reply, “Please substitute house news with some good news about the Father’s house where there are many mansions.” To supplement messages about delayed mail delivery, I could tell them to write about the fact that the Lord is always on time, as the song says, “Yes He is!” For people like me, folks looking for free stuff they can use, the writer can suggest briefly write about believer; the fact that we have been saved by grace through faith and place an emphasis on the free gift of salvation. Surely someone could use that news! Note: I never see any messages like I just mentioned…never.
While I am in the suggesting mode, I have two for you. First, read God’s word today. Second, imagine starring at the collection of works at the art gallery as you look through the Scriptures today. Stay with it and pray that He will, with the help of the Holy Spirit, help you see what He is trying to communicate to you…personally and specifically to you. You will enjoy your visit and benefit from it as you shall be further equipped to live victoriously daily! Have a great Friday! Stay God conscious! Be blessed!
“I rejoice at Your word as one who finds great treasure.” (Psalm 119:62 KJV)
Still committed to the climb,
Mark L. King