Why are you here?

Thought for the day

One day, a couple by the name of Herman and Mary were riding along in their shiny new car. Mary spoke up and said, "You know, Herman, if it weren't for my money, we probably wouldn't have this wonderful new car." And Herman just sat there and didn't say anything at all.

As they pulled into the driveway, Herman turned off the motor and they quietly admired their new home. Then Mary said, "You know, Herman, if it weren't for my money, we probably wouldn't have this new house." And again, Herman just sat there and didn't say anything.

They got out of the car and walked in just as the delivery man finished setting up their new furniture. "You know, Herman," said Mary once more, "If it were not for my money, we probably wouldn't have this new carpet and all this new furniture." And once more, Herman didn't say a word.

It happened again as they sat down in their new den and propped their feet up and watched the big screen TV in their new entertainment center. "You know, Herman," said Mary, "if it were not for my money, we probably wouldn't have this huge entertainment center."

And with that, poor Herman had had enough. He turned to Mary and said, "I don't want to hurt your feelings, honey, but you know if it weren't for your money, I probably wouldn't be here either!"

I have a question for those of you who are Christians. Why are you "here"? By that, I mean, what is it that keeps you faithful and active as a part of the body of Christ? Is it the money? Not likely (though the future treasure of a heavenly home may be part of the reason). Is it guilt? Perhaps. Is it because it's what's expected of you, or just what you've always done out of habit?

In the letter to the Hebrews, the author deals with this question. He writes to a group of Christians who are considering walking away from Christianity. And his strongest warnings to them come as a reminder that walking away means losing the most important thing in this world -- a relationship with Jesus Christ, the Son of God. Ultimately, that's why we're here.

"Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has gone through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to the faith we profess." (Hebrews 4:14).

Sometimes, in the midst of our trials and difficulties, we need a reminder that there's one very important thing keeping us "here" -- Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior!

Verses

1 John 5:4

Because everyone who has been born of God conquers the world, and this is the victory that triumphs over the world, the faith that we have.

Philippians 4:13

I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.

John 8:36

So if the Son makes you free, you will be free indeed.

Romans 12:12

Base your happiness on your hope in Christ. When trials come endure them patiently; steadfastly maintain the habit of prayer.

Proverbs 13:21

Misfortune pursues the sinner, but prosperity is the reward of the righteous.

Prayer

Father, when we face struggles with a confident heart instead of a cringing fear we give testimony to Your active power in our lives. There is nothing that we cannot overcome by Your grace as You work out the details and the timing. A whining spirit only leads to self-pity while a thankful spirit visualizes a hopeful outlook. Our confidence grows as we look beyond the current crisis to You, our Great Deliverer, who has done so many wondrous works that the whole world is not big enough to contain the books that would describe Your miraculous, delivering power. Amen.