For years, the fear of not making the most of life has really been a burden, a chain that bound me to a way of life where satisfaction could never be fully realized. There was a fear of never being good enough to measure up to those around me and also the fear of being left behind if I did not overachieve. I was a slave to doing everything I could to stand out and be recognized for raises and promotions. If the job required extra hours, count me in, if it needed more knowledge, there were always courses to take and if it needed more dedication to job than self, family, and friends, guess which one got the priority. Chained down to the American dream of wealth, power, and the good things in life. If those were not achieved, we were either not doing enough or trying hard enough to be considered a success in the eyes of our culture. I can honestly say that I am still somewhat trapped in that ideology because that was the way I was raised but I am trying to break free from more of the bonds every day. Bet you thought I was going to say that ever since I found Jesus, things drastically changed, and all the chains of bondage were broken but I cannot say that. You see, I still hold onto some of the old ways, but fear is no longer the master of my life, Christ is, and I find strength in Him. Focus has shifted, behaviours have changed, and continue to change.
Keep your eyes on Jesus, who both began and finished this race we’re in. Study how he did it. Because he never lost sight of where he was headed—that exhilarating finish in and with God—he could put up with anything along the way: Cross, shame, whatever. Heb 12:2-3 Msg
The moment we realize that there is more to life, eternal life, than the finite measurements of this world, that is when we will truly break the bonds of this world and free ourselves from mortal bondage. Consider this, gold is a metal that mankind has given a value, and it is a measurement of wealth yet give a baby a rattle made of gold, and it is simply a toy. In heaven it is a paving stone, nothing more than a pretty covering for a path to be trod upon without a thought of being worth anything. The paper/plastic in our pockets is simply a representation of a wealth denomination and yet it can be wiped out with a simple declaration that it is worthless. It is my opinion that the greatest wealth one could be blessed with is a fabulous relationship with not only the Saviour but also with those all around me. You see, in Heaven there will be no need for finite measures of wealth but rather we will be amongst the greatest treasures, our Lord, our families and our friends. If we refocus on that which is truly important, we are no longer a slave to the finite but rather are set free to be blessed forever. For me, it takes time to completely release from the behaviours of the past but, in His strength, I/we can break completely free.
This week, we welcome, once again, Craig Fisher who will share a message that God has placed on his heart. The service will be broadcast online on our website (https://www.mainavefellowship.ca/socialplatforms), or you are more than welcome to join us in person at 10:30 AM, at 402 Main Ave. W in Sundre, AB.
Blessings,
Our Mission “To live the love of Christ”
