“We are treated as deceivers and yet are truthful; as unrecognized and yet acknowledged; as dying and behold we live; as chastised and yet not put to death; as sorrowful yet always rejoicing; as poor yet enriching many; as having nothing and yet possessing all things…” (2 Cor 6)
As Christ followers we live in a world of tension and paradox. We live in the “already” and still the “not yet.” Through Christ we are already in heaven and yet we live in this world. We possess all things and yet, we have nothing.
And yet.
This is sometimes a difficult place to be. Our desires and longings for what God has promised, but do not possess, can be so painful.
This is our challenge; to live the promise while often experiencing the lack of the promise. This definitely creates a tension in our lives, doesn’t it? Sometimes it would seem easier to throw in the towel; to simply forget about the whole damn thing and live for the pleasures of this world. Why should I care about the next life? Just live for today; enjoy today!
But we would not be able to make the music of heaven we are called to play. It is the tension that creates the music that the world needs to hear. As a guitarist I know that in order to make the beautiful note, the string must be tuned to the proper key, and this requires tension. The Holy Spirit knows the proper amount of tension needed in our soul to enable us to be part of the music of heaven. It is through you and I, his church, that heaven’s song is played in unique ways.
Thank God for the tension; thank God for the paradoxes; thank God for the “and yets” of our lives. We are God’s instrument to give glory to Him. Do not fret the tension you are under, your response has the potential give praise, honor and glory to God and bring a little taste of heaven to earth.
How will you respond to the tension you may be under today? Let the music of heaven be played through you.
Prayer
God, you are so good! Let me not forget that today. I am full of the knowledge that you have called me and have filled me with your Spirit, and yet, I can be so full of myself and so fearful and prideful and angry and frustrated all at the same time!
And yet…
I am aware of your love and forgiveness and the grace you pour out upon me. Help me live in this place today; help me live in the place of the “and yet” so that my life will be part of the glorious music of heaven.
Amen
A beautiful reflection.
That is an incredible honest essay about the Christian life. Thank you!
I haven't been able to give thanks for the tension, maybe I'll get there some day, but I'm learning to give thanks within the tension.
Blessings.
Rg