Redemption and Fire

I was humbled and blessed by a conversation earlier today with a gentleman who popped into our church bible study and joined us for lunch afterwards. From the minute the session began, he was speaking Truth in such an elegant and sincere way. I immediately knew something was different about him. He wasn't the type that sat back and simply observed what was going on, nor slipped in questions or comments to be insightful- he knew the truths of the bible and wanted them to be known. His passion and hunger for God was blinding and I was left awestruck and convicted. I learned after the meeting that he was a recovered addict and God had saved him from his sinful past, where he constantly teetered between life and death. He now spends his time running his own company and attending different groups, such as alcoholics anonymous and narcotics anonymous on an almost daily basis- all for the glory of God. His mission is to build relationships with others who are still struggling and showing them the love of Christ. Not a single word that he spoke, even at lunch with the group, deviated from his calling, mission, and love for God. Nothing about the latest TV show, music, or celebrity drama.. just how much he loved God and how desperately people out there need saving. 

His humility and passion was truly beautiful. This was a man about my age who got a sweet taste of God's grace and mercy and allowed the Spirit to work inside of him and initiate an about-face transformation. He grasped redemption and clung on with all of his might, and is now a fountain of God's blessing. Bold. Fervent. Hungry. I soon felt a pang of conviction within my soul, as I knew I too had a taste of redemption, but compared to this man who was clearly and utterly on fire for God, I touted a little spark at best. Sometimes it's easy to think that it is easier for such people who have received more grace to experience more love and desire for God. This is even exemplified in the parable of the two debtors in John chapter 7- when Simon answers that the one who was forgiven of the larger debt would love the lender more. However, this was before the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross. Although God didn't have to pull me out of as deep a hole as the other guy, I was still dead in my sin and was destined for hell without Jesus. My new friend may have received more grace, but we were both redeemed at the same price. How then, can I take this for granted and not yearn for God's will as he does? Maybe the desire is there, but the manifestation and fruits of the Spirit is lacking. I resist the prompting of the Spirit out of insecurity, fear, and pride. I allow these things to override my ability to reflect the glory of God and His love for me. 

I am reminded that God does not need our deeds or actions. He will accomplish His will with or without us. As my new friend said, "The beauty is that God's will is going to be done regardless. However, it is such a joy and a privilege to be used by God to accomplish His purpose." This helped me see things from a slightly different perspective. Yes, I may fail and get rejected by man, but God will still have His way, and He will continue to give me opportunities to take part in His plan. This is not a chore or an assignment, but a privilege. 

I thank God for His passionate children, who bring many non-believers to Christ, pour out the love of Jesus, and spur on fellow believers to do the same.