Monday, September 2, 2013

Monday’s Musings: Is Life Really a Fight?


2 Timothy 4:6-8 (NLT)  As for me, my life has already been poured out as an offering to God. The time of my death is near. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, and I have remained faithful. And now the prize awaits me—the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give me on the day of his return. And the prize is not just for me but for all who eagerly look forward to his appearing.

I will admit this is a beautiful scripture and description of someone who worked to advance a new type of religion against much opposition and hardship.  I can understand where he’s coming from and we use this scripture often at funerals.  Yet personally I don’t know if at the end I want my life described as “fighting the good fight.”  I live with God by my side.  Life certainly has some struggles, some challenges, and some disappointments.  I haven’t gotten things that I wanted; I’ve attempted some things and not claimed the prize. There’s nothing like competitive horse showing to give one the experience of winning and losing. And yet right along and intertwined with the challenges and disappointments I’ve experienced joy and love and friendships and personal achievements.  In all these things I know God is with me.  So don’t say I have fought a fight.  Say I have met life’s sorrows and struggles with the joy of the Lord sustaining me and with many, many wonderful blessings.

Thank you God for this day on which I and others can rest from their labor.  Help us to view life not as a fight, but one with blessings and challenges. Help us to always feel your sustaining presence with us through the Holy Spirit.  Amen.
Happy Labor Day,
Paige

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