Sock in the gutt; gee thanks God!
I’m reading through Richard Stearns’ The Hole In Our Gospel once again, and came across this passage this morning.
“For I was hungry, while you had all you needed. I was thirsty, but you drank bottled water. I was a stranger, and you wanted me deported. I needed clothes, but you needed more clothes. I was sick, and you pointed out the behaviors that led to my sickness. I was in prison, and you said I was getting what I deserved. (RESV-Richard E. Stearns Version)”
The entire passage is found in Matthew 25:31-46, but how Stearns’ paraphrased in his own words this portion really got to me this morning. As I was driving in to work I noticed a car off in the ditch with tires spinning, trying to get out. The thought occured to me to stop, and then my mind was flooded with reasons why not to. It’s wet out and I have no other clothes with me. Someone else will come along soon. They probably have a cell phone so they can just call someone. And on and on and on……..
PATHETIC!
Finally I convinced myself to turn around and head back, and by the time I got there probably 7-8 people had already stopped to lend a hand. I already felt bad enough, but a little relieved too that at least I had turned around.
Then I read this.
Totally punch in the gutt. But it’s EXACTLY what I needed. As much as I think about this stuff, there are times where I still just absolutely suck at it. I’m glad God’s willing to have patience and go through these situations with us. I’m so glad He doesn’t give up on us.
So, this Thanksgiving, I would say I’m thankful that God never gives up on us. He’s always looking to help us grow to be more like Him. How often are we willing to accept His help? I hope to grow to the point where I no longer only learn and grow through mistakes I make or bad situations. I want to learn and grow more through doing what’s right. I hate that I hesitated this morning. I missed an opportunity.
I’m humbled this morning. I’m also thankful for a loving patient God. How about you?