Coming of Age

How many times, as a child, did your parents say, "When you are older...?" These are frustrating words to a youngster who is impatient to be older, to finally turn 10 and enter a new age. The years progressed and soon the urgency to turn 13 surfaced, followed by 21. All seen as magical numbers which somehow have power to change everything. 

Most of us remember these feelings and recognize them in our own children and grandchildren. It is easy for us to smile knowing numbers don't change anything. Our progression from age 10 (child) to 21(adult) is natural, but doesn't change who we are; only who we report to. The child answers to the parent, the adult answers to a professor or a boss.

The amazing thing about aging, is not the destination of a specific season of life, but the journey which got us to this moment in time. The lessons we learned along the way, the people we met and impacted, and the relationships formed over time. 

A most important and impactful relationship is the one we cultivate with Jesus. It is like that with us; there was a time when we were like children held under the elemental powers of this world. (Galatians 4:3 Voice) As the years progressed, we did too. Our faith grew and our love for Jesus grew as a result of His love for us. 

Because you are now part of God's family, He sent the Spirit of His Son into our hearts; and the Spirit calls out, "Abba, Father." You no longer need to live as a slave because you are a child of God. And since you are His child, God guarantees an inheritance is waiting for you.

Galatians 4:3-7

Demolishing Grudges

Midweek Meditation                                     

Galatians 4:3-7

“Because you are His sons, God sent the Spirit of His Son into our hearts, the Spirit who calls out, Abba, Father.” (Galatians 4:6)

Are you acquainted with someone who holds a grudge, maybe against someone who offended or hurt them? Do you do this? It is easy to get stuck like this, in a rut of rancor. This may have been me years ago; before I learned about Jesus and His love and forgiveness. This sounds simplified, trite even - but true non the less.

As a Christian, new to the faith, we cling to old ways until God's Word and His Love seep into us. This happens when we practice growing our faith. We grow our faith by reading our Bibles and by seeking out the company of those we recognize as strong believers. By allowing them to speak into our lives and build relationships with us, our hearts are certain to change.

This way of living is more important than ever, with all the hate that seems to prevail. Hate comes from holding a grudge, from unforgiveness, and from Satan, the master deceiver. Remember the thief on the cross next to Jesus? At the last minute he recognized His Savior and called out to Him. Jesus could have held a grudge against the man, but instead forgave him in an instant.

Dear Jesus, help me to reach out to those I struggle with relationally and turn them from enemies into dear friends. Amen.

                                                                                                                                                                                            Judy Webb