Your Response to God
As I was leaving a friend’s house a while back, I came around the corner and was shocked to see the roof of the house in front of me engulfed in flames. Quickly I tried to process what was going on. Is this house actually on fire? Is anyone else seeing this? Why is there no one else around? Is there anyone inside? Has help been called? Am I willing to go into a burning house? In a matter of seconds I tried to comprehend exactly what was going on and what needed to be done. Although the minutes seemed like an eternity, before long, the police, firefighters, and a paramedic were at the scene working together to keep everyone safe and doing their best to save all they could of this house.
This week we are taking some time to thank the people that are called in to be the first responders in situations like this; those who are the first at the scene in all situations and circumstances. The ones who deal with the fear, sadness, tragedy, and surprises all while making split-second decisions that often times save lives.
As we focus on thanking the people who respond to situations like these this week, I would like to take some time to focus on how we respond to God, His Word, and the things He places in our lives.
What’s your first response?
Throughout the gospels we see Jesus calling people to follow him. In Matthew 9:9, Jesus tells Matthew “Follow me.” And Matthew does. In Mark 1:17-18, Jesus tells Simon and Andrew, “Follow me.” And immediately they do. Over and over again to each of his soon-to-be disciple Jesus says, “Follow me.” Each disciple willing leaves all they have and follow Him. Jesus called and they respond. They didn’t stop and ask why. They didn’t make a list of the pros and cons. They didn’t go home and think about it. They immediately responded and followed him. What would you have done?
Have you responded to God and all He has done for you? God sent his son Jesus Christ to die on the cross as punishment for YOUR sins. God gave up his Son for YOU. Jesus gave up his life for YOU. He died on the cross so that YOUR sins could be forgiven. If you believe this… truly believe this… then how is that response seen in your life? Luke 9:23 tells us, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me.” A response to God and everything He has done for you means your life is no longer your own. It’s not about what makes you happy. It’s not about what you have or your earthly success. It’s not about YOU. Simply put it’s about bringing glory to God. It’s about following the One who created the universe. The one who created YOU. (Does that mean you’re doomed to an unhappy, unsuccessful life? No, but regardless of the circumstances in your life your true success and joy is found in Christ alone).
As I stood on the side of the road with the homeowner watching her earthly possessions go up in flames I was very thankful that we have the means and ability to call these first responders for help in times like these. More than that though I am thankful that I have a Savior who has gave up his life for me. So that I could have the opportunity to respond and give my life back to Him. A Savior that I can call on at all times. No matter what. And He responds.
Always.