A Reward So Great
We’d like to see ourselves as takers of chance, contrarian attitudes, survivors of the game of life, but few of us in fact ever really extend ourselves beyond our well marked gates of security. We’ll ride the scariest roller coasters, while assured in privacy that they will not jump the rails that guide them. We’ll swim in oceans where we can’t see beneath the cloaking surface, yet never allowing the shoreline out of view. We’ll ride atop a level 5 white water river, clad in jackets of life and protective helmets. Unless required or absolutely necessary however, we’ll rarely choose to set our lives squarely in the cross-hairs of an unknown enemy. When such choices are finally made, the consequences of our actions, are outweighed by the more severe consequences of our in-action. How many would choose to hunt if their safety were more at risk than that of their chosen prey? Such was the choice that our Lord made, when he chose the cross (for us) over the bliss of heaven. Yes, Jesus understood what was beyond the well marked gates of security, but so should we, if our faith and follower’s endurance are intact. Taking risks for the surge of adrenalin is merely a game, while taking a risk to change the game is a monumental step. Especially when the consequences of our in-action serve to end the game in a permanent loss.
The Apostle John wrote: “Then the angel said to me, “Write this: Blessed are those who are invited to the wedding supper of the Lamb!” And he added, “These are the true words of God.” (Revelation 19:9 NIV). In our world a wedding supper may be a joyous event for both hosts and guests, but for the invited guests it is seldom a high risk venture, rather a simple reward for love, friendship and support. Since there is no great risk in accepting the invitation, it is surprising when the majority of those invited decline to accept their invitation. This generally occurs when the invited guests don’t really know the bridal party or hosts very well. To miss this particular celebration, would be the omission which ends all other omissions. Getting to know and understand the groom in this verse carries no risk, only benefits, but there are real fears to overcome. The fears of change, submission and obedience are what keep many away. Overcoming these fears carries the ultimate reward of changing the game permanently. There might be an initial rush of adrenalin but following that rush is the trust and conviction of an unbiased love. A reward so great, it’s value can never be fully measured.
JC Calkins with COMMON SENSE 4 UNCOMMON PEOPLE
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Cool Halloween picture.