Stranger in a STRANGE Land
“Live your lives as strangers here in reverent fear.” ~1 Peter 1:17
When I moved to Memphis 13 years ago, I experienced life as a STRANGER. This California girl knew nothing of lightning bugs, grits, or what it meant to “carry” someone to the store! The Handy Map was my constant companion, and even with that I found myself lost just about every time I ventured out.
Now, I’ve settled in, I’m at home here in the south, and can’t imagine living anywhere else. I’m completely at ease with phrases like, “fixin’ to go to the store,” or, “why don’t y’all come over tonight?” What’s happened to me?!? I’ve learned to adapt, and even embrace my southern ways. (and it feels quite comfy, thanks!)
As I read Peter’s words, I have to pause and ask myself, “Have I become too comfortable?” Life is good, God has shown His favor. May I never forget, however, that THIS is not my home! As a Christ-follower, I shouldn’t blend in to the crowd; I will always be a stranger here, and God meant it that way.
PRAYER:
God, awaken in me a reverent fear. Forgive me for becoming so at home here that I don’t long for my true home. Stir within my heart a fresh passion to reach the lost, to even go against the flow at times, so that Your light may shine brightly through me. I want to live my life fully devoted to You. May I always remember, I’m a stranger in a STRANGE land!
Light & Momentary
16 Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. 17 For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. 18 So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal 2 Corinthians 4:16-18 (NIV)
When life seems so difficult, I’m often tempted to start a pity party and look at all that’s wrong. Cancer racks the bodies of good & faithful people, corrupt ones seem to get ahead…is there no justice?
But that’s when I look around and realize that all of this is only temporary after all. What is it I’m living for? It’s for that day when I will see my Savior face to face and hear Him say, “Well done, my daughter, welcome home!”
“When the Saints” is a song by Sara Groves that has stirred my soul like few others have. Turn up the volume and let these words feed your spirit: http://www.myspace.com/saragroves
keep looking »-
Executive Pastor Sharon Herlihy
-
Find It