As we approach 2019, what is the desire of your heart? What makes you want to get up in the morning? For some of us that is getting harder to do: physically, mentally, relationally, even spiritually. For some it seems like it is an endless amount of problems, deadlines, and overwhelming circumstances. What are we to do?
We were created for eternity, and we must live life with that in mind. The Scriptures say, “Set your mind on the things above, not on the things that are on earth. For you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God,” Col. 3:2,3. “I have been crucified with Christ, and it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life I now live is the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, Who loved me and gave Himself up for me,” Gal. 2:20. “But seek first His Kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you,” Matt. 6:33.
It is not that easy. It is called having an eternal perspective. We don’t ignore our jobs, problems we face, pain we feel, chores to be done or isolation we experience. But we recognize there is an eternity to spend with God and we must be about His business; the Great Commandment – to love our God supremely; the Great Commission – to disciple others. Jesus said, “we must lay up treasures in heaven.”
C.S. Lewis states, “If you read history you will find that the Christians who did most for the present world were just those who thought most of the next… It is since Christians have largely ceased to think of the other world that they have become so ineffective in this. Aim at Heaven and you will get earth thrown in; aim at earth and you will get neither,” (from Mere Christianity). Convicting words.
I came across this paragraph that struck me as a prayer for God’s Kingdom, to come. Maybe you can pray it with me for 2019. “O Lord, the desire of all nations, in the knowledge of your love and power there is salvation for all the peoples of the earth. Quickly bring the day when everyone shall acknowledge you as Lord over all. Quickly bring the day when our earthly society shall become the kingdom of Christ. Quickly bring the day when your presence and the strong hand of your purpose shall be found not only in the hearts of a few wise and brave people, but throughout the nation, in the corridors of power, in the workshop, office, and marketplace, in the city and in the country. And whatever I myself can do toward the fulfilment of your purpose, give me grace to begin today, through Jesus Christ. Amen,” from A Diary of Private Prayer by John Baillie.