“Keep up your reputation, God – give me life! In your justice, get me out of this trouble! In your great love, vanquish my enemies; make a clean sweep of those who harass me. And why? Because I’m your servant.” Psalm 143.11,12
Everyone has a view of God; some hold an excess saccharin view, others see a sadistic judge toying with individual lives. Then there are those who picture is muddy beyond comprehension. This time of year finds everyone taking a moment to reflect, if only to question the blatant consumerism that marks the birth of someone claiming to be God’s Son.
My relationship with God continues to evolve. The Santa Claus God of my childhood has given way to a mysterious God who loves me in ways I cannot comprehend and for reasons I can only say thank-you. The biggest change I find is in my relationship to others because of God’s relationship to me. God’s love for me because I am a human is profound and unique. Nobody shares this view. God gift of eternal relationship is even more mysterious. I cannot earn it, I do not deserve it, and I cannot lose it.
So where does this leave me on Christmas Eve? I find myself deeply aware of my failings and weakness. The holes and mountains I continue to dig for myself are overwhelming! My ability to dig myself out will never resolve the problem. I am in a fix and I have so much that I want to do! The problem and the answer is one in the same! I can sum it all up in my one Christmas wish.
Do what you do best God – give me love, grace, and life! Do your stuff God; take over for me in my weaknesses, deal with the broken relationships around me – even those of my own doing! Bring all of us into relationship with you. Do this for one reason, because I accept your love and give my life – my waking up, walking, going to work, and doing the stuff life – to you.
