A devotion throwback by Karen Rees.
“Be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved children and live a life of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.” Ephesians 5:1-2
When I was a child, my parents saw a poster announcing that a traveling circus was coming to a nearby town. They decided to take my brothers, my sister and me. Our excitement grew during the days of waiting, the final preparation, and the long drive to town. I was especially eager to see a performing elephant.
We arrived at the field where the circus should have been. It was empty. My parents had gotten the date wrong.
Some days later my parents drove us back to town. This time the circus was there, and I encountered my first circus elephant.
Correct Information
My experience with the circus taught me that enthusiasm alone won’t make an encounter happen. I must have correct information and use it correctly.
The Jews in the New Testament illustrate a similar lesson. They were zealous for God, but they looked for him in the wrong places, in the wrong ways, and with the wrong attitudes. Because of this, they ended up rejecting God when he came in human form. (Romans 10:1-3)
Today we still need correct information used correctly if we want to encounter God. Thankfully God himself has provided that information in the Scriptures.
Encounters
But what kind of encounter are we looking for?
I went to the circus because it sounded exciting. I wanted to be entertained and to have a good story to tell later. I didn’t go to join the circus.
Many of the people in the New Testament followed Jesus to see the miracles and to get free meals. Jesus provided them with all the excitement of a circus. But when he started asking for real commitment on their part, they went home. They weren’t interested in that kind of encounter. The only ones who stayed were the ones who were willing to commit everything to him. (John 6:66-69)
What kind of encounter do I want to have with God? Am I looking for a “circus” encounter or am I willing to join the “circus” and let Christ live in me and change me into the person He wants me to be?
This change will affect every aspect of my life: the words I speak and write, my relationship with family and friends, how I treat strangers, my work ethic, how I use my money, what I do with my free time, how I handle anxiety, and so much more. It won’t all be easy. There will be times of discouragement and even suffering. (James 1:2-4) I’ll also no longer be the boss of my life.
But if I allow Christ to take charge, I’ll become a different person … a better person … a kinder person. I’ll also have a hope and a peace that only Christ living in me can give. (Romans 15:13) The question remains.
Great post. Thank you.
Wow. That is quite a compelling illustration of how we respond to God’s invitation to connect with him. Thank you.