Thoughtful Thursday

All for this???

Many years ago, when I had just graduated from college and had begun my teaching career, a friend bought a coffee mug for me. Written on the mug was a simple message. It read: “For this I spent four years in college?”

It was meant as a joke, and could apply to any profession when challenges arise. I kept this mug on my desk, and when the paperwork became overwhelming, or took time from actual teaching, or when there was a full moon, and the students were being disruptive, or when the administration added even more responsibilities, I would sometimes look at my little coffee mug and smile.

Sometimes, I wonder if Jesus ever feels this way? When I tend to pout over something that doesn’t go my way, or when pride enters in, and I want to say, “See, I was right!” Or, when I don’t hold my tongue, or remember to be quick to hear, slow to speak, and slow to anger; when I want to handle things my way, instead of God’s way; when I fail to let my light shine, or I fail to be compassionate; when I’ve hurt a brother or a sister; when I don’t read my Bible, or pray enough; when I don't show the fruit of the Spirit; if I have caused someone to stumble…the list could go on and on…

Does Jesus ever look at us and  say, “For this, I died on the cross?”  No, thankfully, He doesn’t. We are His children. He loves us. I think of the words from an old hymn:

“Oh, how I love Jesus, because He first loved me.” Thank you, Jesus, for loving me, even when I mess up! May I strive each and every day to do what is pleasing in Your sight.

Romans 5:7-8 tells us:  “Very rarely will anyone die for a righteous person, though for a good person someone might possibly dare to die.

But God demonstrates His own love for us in this…While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”

Today, Lord, help me remember what You went through, to die on a cross in my place. Help me to remember that You loved me then, and You love me now. Help me, through Your mercy, love, and grace, help me to strive to be worthy.

HAVE A GREAT THURSDAY!