Yesterday was my 60th birthday so I am now a proud member of the "grey-heads". In other cultures, past and present, grey hair has been a sign of wisdom. So, in that spirit, permit me to be a bit reflective on this momentous occasion.
20 years ago, Patty put in my office a balloon which read "Up to 40 it's all just rehearsal."
That humorous sentiment, which I now repeat every year, contains a great kernel of truth. This life, which we hold so dear, is preparatory for something even greater. Each day, God delights to teach us more about Himself through the tears, the joys, the tests and the tedium of daily life. He gives us, in this life, whispers of heaven. He gives us drinks from the river at whose fountainhead we will one day be immersed.
Many days, however, I have been too engrossed in the details of living to appreciate much of what God was displaying or teaching. I have too often missed those brief glimpses of Him in others because I was too focused on the task at hand. So, here are a few lessons that this repentant "Type A" is ever learning...
* It is all about relationships - First, with God; second, with people; but the two are inextricably intertwined. It is not possible for me to grow in my love of God and not have it translate into a greater love for others. As CS Lewis so eloquently put it, we live each day surrounded by possible gods & goddesses - or horrors such as we meet only in a nightmare. And each day we have the privilege help others to one or the other destination. God wants us to "bear fruit" which corresponds to the "good works prepared beforehand" for us to do which always in scripture are related to other people.
* It is all about delight not duty - The "good works" can become oppressive if I feel that is something I have to "do". But God is not looking for slaves to work hard; He is looking to raise sons & daughters in whom He delights and who delight in Him. My joy, my peace, my confidence - all dissipate pretty quickly when I am absorbed by how things are affecting me. When things are difficult, He wants me to come to Him and ask "Father, how is this training me? What is it You want me to learn?"
* It is all about gratitude - One of the most compelling scriptures to me is Paul's statement to the Corinthians "What do you have that you did not receive?" Asking God to help settle that truth deep has been huge for me. When I am tempted to feel like I deserve better or feel superior to another, this simple statement humbles me, reminding me that I have been the recipient of untold mercies and grace. Cultivating an "attitude of gratitude", being thankful daily for those gifts that God has lavished on me, helps keep my eyes lifted up rather than on my circumstances.
* It is all about being led - I have said that I am becoming more mystical as I get older, and in a sense, that is quite true. As someone who enjoys logic, reasoning, thoughtful discussions - it has been all too easy to get lost in the "knowledge about God" versus getting to "know God". But there is a vast difference. "Led by the Spirit" is a phrase and truth that I am only now beginning to comprehend, and that still poorly. Do I really believe that God indwells me? Do I really believe that He will lead me if I desire to be led? Do I really believe that every encounter of my day can be influenced by His Spirit? Far too often I have lived, I fear, as a functional atheist, relying on myself rather than the Spirit.
Well, I suspect that is quite enough for one morning. Be delighted, be grateful, be led well in all your relationships today.
Keith
