Most of us aren't.
Or are we? I mean, rich compared to who?
We might not be rich compared to Bill Gates, but how about compared to someone living in the Middle Ages, who feared plague or walked in cow dung every day? Or in Renaissance Europe, when courtiers carried perfumed hankies because people and places stank so badly? Or modern Ethiopia, where starvation kills thousands of people every day?
We are, in fact, richer than we ordinarily think.
Admit it.
We live in a place and time of comfort and privilege. No one dies of starvation here. We do not wake to the sound of gunfire. Our lives are luxuriant beyond that of ancient kings.
But are very poor in one way. We can no longer see God.
We are the ones Jesus spoke of when He said,
Blessed are they who have not seen, yet believe.--John 20:29
We have not seen.
Moses, Abraham, and Noah have long ago died. The burning bush is extinguished. The voice on Sinai is silent. Jesus does not walk among us. We cannot, by word of mouth, learn of something He did just yesterday in the next town.
We need one thing those poorer people did not.
If we are to know God, we must have faith.
No earthly privilege will bring it.
No wealth can buy it.
We will not stumble upon it hanging on a cross in the town square.
Still, God made us for this time.
Faith is part of our intended destiny and, indeed, it is our privilege.
Because we cannot see, we must believe.
The Lord is near to all who call upon Him, to all who call upon Him in truth.--Psalm 145:18
Without faith we are a needy people indeed. Eyes blinded with no hope to see the Savior--or the wound in His side. Food for thought here, friend.
ReplyDeleteI used to think we were born in a cushy time and place and to a great degree, that is true. But God asks of us one of the greatest works, and as a result, offers the greatest rewards, the communion that comes with faith.
DeleteWise words - and truthful.
ReplyDeleteIt's definitely a matter of perspective. Great thoughts, thanks.
ReplyDelete'Because we cannot see we must believe.'
ReplyDeleteWow you write some inspired words.
Small but mighty post, this. Thank you.
Have long been one of those folks who think I need concrete proof, then I started to understand the privilege of faith.
DeleteThank you, and welcome.
ReplyDeleteThank you for joining in the fun at the Thursday Favorite Things hop. Happy weekend wishes and God Bless xo
ReplyDeleteGreat post with so many truths!! Stopping by from Still Saturday, have a blessed day!! :)
ReplyDelete