While watching Jeopardy last night, I learned that January 17th is a holiday. No, nobody's birthday, it is National Break Your New Year's Resolution Day. A day that by name sounds pessimistic, the fact that it is 17 days into the new year, gives hope-at least for two weeks. For to those of you who make these resolutions that you cannot fulfill, they only bring more stress for that time period, with so many not making it until the 17th. And they seem like altruistic goals-lose weight, stop smoking, watch less Jeopardy, but they all end in an appointment with disappointment. AKA-failure. Like I don't have enough problems already.
And a popular theme this year among the church is to read through the Bible in a year. Spend 30 minutes each day reading, and then check off what you read. Theresa even brought home a book so you can follow it. And although this seems like a Godly thing to do, it is cloaked in a false spirituality-one it is all about you, not God, one that puts you in control-not God, and ends with an appointment with disappointment. And it brings more laws into your life-and a potential quenching of the spirit. For instance-
The first three days you are hot, then the weekend comes. Life interferes with your plans. And the excuses fly, so you try again on Monday-two days behind. Soon this task to know God better takes on the burden of a late homework assignment, and pretty soon it is forgotten. And the memory is only made worse by someone holding out longer than you. They may have gotten to the Mount of Transfiguration, but you're still stuck in the valley of the shadow of death. And ask yourself, what does this have to do with Jesus being in control of my life, like I pray?
Remember this life is about relationships, starting with our one with God. Consider the following, and see my point. You buy a new bike, and call some friends to ride with you. You're excited, and you want to ride. And here are the rules. For the first ten miles we ride no faster than 40mph. Then rest. Then we ride 50mph for an hour, then rest. Then 60 mph, but not for long-and we are still home by noon. Can't wear out that new engine. Are you the only one disappointed when after you announce this find you are riding alone? And get no return calls for next week?
When dating, you tell your new date, I need to be in by 9pm. But our next date we can stay out until 10. Still looking for that elusive second date?
Imagine life with your spouse. Tonight you can talk 20 minutes, then it is my turn. Then you can have ten, then I'll finish up with ten. Then it's back to watching Jeopardy-alone! Won't that be fun? NO-for you see relationships take time to develop, and if they are to be intimate, take one on one personal contact. So why do we bring a set of rules to our relationship with God-when this foolish set of rules doesn't work in any other relationship?
When you first met your spouse to be, you thought of her constantly. Would call many times a day, and look forward to spending time together. Without time frames-spontaneity showed love. Same with your new bike-I bought my R90S in the morning and took it back that afternoon for the 600 mile service. For a relationship to work, it must be intimate-time must be invested, and it can only be done one on one. You have to spend time with that person. Just like with God.
So it is OK to think of Him during the day, and not wait until your 30 minute appointment is here. And hey, what if 30 minutes isn't enough, can I get extra? Will it cut into tomorrow's time? Sad, but true, beneath the veneer of spirituality, lies legalism, just ready to ruin the spirit. But it doesn't have to be that way.
We say we trust God with our lives. We tell Him we have given them over to Him, and we call Him Lord. Then let's let Him be Lord, and let Him lead. No co-pilot, but full charge. He knows what's best, knows and orders our footsteps, and promises joy to those who are obedient-rather than sacrificial of their time, or money. He wants a personal relationship with you, and good times or bad, knows what you can handle, so schedules accordingly. No-everyday isn't 85 degrees with low humidity and a tailwind, but He is with you in the storm-or the valley of the shadow of death. And then is with you on the mount, and all steps in between. And as you go-remember those words He gave to His disciples-as you go preach the word by showing your relationship with God. And instead of a religion, have a relation. A friend who knows your name, and you can get to know His. No laws, just His spirit leading. And enjoy the true freedom you can only find in Jesus Christ.
For joy doesn't come from learning about God, memorizing scripture, or opening your wallet to give your 10%. It comes from a personal relationship with God via His son, Jesus Christ. No booklets, no lists, no appointments with disappointment. Time with a friend, who just happens to be the one who created the universe. Spend time with Him today-what will your answer be when He asks why do you call me Lord, but don't do the things I say? But, God-sorry He seeks a relationship, not an adherence to laws. He wants you!
Have I made you my enemy by telling you the truth? Seek Jesus, and find the way, the truth, and the life. At the cross. No more appointments of disappointment-He even let's you make the choice. So get to know Him-you can only trust someone you know-not know about! Know the one who never left you during your appoints with disappointment-truly there is joy in the morning with Jesus! And all the other times of the day, too!
Reading it more and enjoying it less? Walk in the spirit-and all other things will be added.
love with compassion,
Mike
matthew25biker.blogspot.com