God lives and works today.
Why do these words bring so little joy
to most of our lives?
Could it be that our lives have taken
paths that aren't in accordance with God's will?
Paths that constantly lead us further away from
Him?
Today's meditation by Vassily Shlink, called Turnabout, is
a practical help for all those of us
who would like to find our way back
to God.
Have you ever been shaken up by the
words in the Bible, teach us to number
our days, or it is appointed for men
to die once, and after that comes judgment?
Have death and eternity ever become a reality
for you?
It is awaiting us all, as we experienced
when two of our friends were instantly killed
in a traffic accident.
We were deeply moved and were reminded of
Paul's words in 2 Corinthians 5, 10.
We must all appear before the judgment seat
of Christ, so that each one may receive
good or evil, according to what he has
done in the body.
The grace of Jesus is unfathomable and as
deep as the ocean.
He lets this grace flow down upon all
those whose hearts are humble and contrite, who
lie at the foot of the cross weeping
over their sins.
Therefore there is nothing that Jesus longs for
so much as to see a real turnabout
in our lives.
What does this mean in practical terms?
We have to turn around and go back
the way we came.
We have to head in the opposite direction.
For example, if a person is very dominating
and often hurts other people with his sharp
words, to repent would mean to apologize immediately
each time and to ask, if possible, to
work in a place where he's the humble
and lowly one.
God is waiting for us to turn about
from every sin in our lives.
Of course we can't become new people through
our own efforts.
However, it's important that we show God this
little sign of our willingness.
We have to say by our actions, I
won't stand for this sin in myself any
longer.
This is the end.
The turnabout may only begin in a very
small way.
For example, the person who is always late
because of his self-will and disobedience should
now make a point of leaving for his
destination five minutes earlier.
God wants to give us grace upon grace.
Let us not lose this grace because we
aren't ready to turn about.
Jesus' arms are open for everyone who is
willing to turn away from sin.
To them he is calling, I will help
you.
I will complete the work.
Behold, I make all things new.