Waking up to see life for what it is can be a harsh, numbing, and blinding experience. Yesterday I received a wake-up call and it hurt. Whatever I might say about the call, arguments I might raise, points that one could make, the call was and is one person's perspective. I can analyze the details, rationalize the words, and or ignore what someone is saying; the words are there regardless. It is one version of reality.
How does one really know what their reality is like? Do we do it all on our own? Can we trust others to give us an honest assessment? Are we willing to listen and hear?
If I pass to look backwards, my own assessment is rather frightening. If I look at it third person, my comments mirror Solomon's. “Because you hated Knowledge and had nothing to do with the Fear-of-God, because you wouldn't take my advice and brushed aside all my offers to train you, well, you've made your bed – now lie in it.” (Proverbs 1.29,30)
Reality is stark color. There are shades of achievement and progress; however, the pain, mistakes, and lost opportunities are bold and vivid. I do not really want to see this reality, however, ignoring it risks my very heart and soul. Is this everything?
It is too easy to overlook or miss where God fits into your reality and mine. God knows the details of our picture with extreme clarity. He cheers our achievements, however he does see them in the perspective of real sacrifice and the work of heroes. The harsh colors are clear; he is able to see them and remind us open and honestly that we will again paint these colors in the days to come. We often miss the fact that God never looks at us without the context of His Son and the work that frames and shapes our lives.
God answered the accusations from your life and mine with his Son on Calvary. Your reality and mine covered by pure love and mercy. This is our true reality.
