Sho Baraka - Talented 10thSample

King

Waiting for Something Greater!

When I was a young boy, I would get super excited about family trips and special events. I can remember my mother or aunt telling us that we would be going to Six Flags in the distant future. I would get so excited at times that I would come close to anxiety attacks. There were times in my childhood when we didn’t have any money, so trips to Six Flags would be scarce. Going on an excursion like this was more than a day of fun. In many ways it was an escape from the painful reality that we lived in; an escape from sickness, pain, and low-income living. However, it was also a chance for our parents to exploit us! They knew we’d be on our best behavior if we were anticipating a day at the amusement park.

We knew the slightest mishap in school or disobedience at home could jeopardize our escapade. This understanding would create some of the most well-mannered children. It was as if Six Flags created in us a self-control that was unknown to man. Rooms were cleaned, homework was done, and there was never any grumbling or complaining. What I now realize is that the hope of a future expectation altered our present mindset and behavior.

Paul describes the pain that we, as believers, go through with being in an earthly tent that will pass away (v 5:1). But he also tells us that this will increase our desire for something more glorious (v 17). What is more important is that he uses this as an opportunity to show his appreciation for the future hope that was freely given (5:9-10). Paul resolved that regardless of the situation before him, he would pursue the LORD’s pleasure because of His faithfulness in Paul’s life. Just like Paul, as a child, I knew that nothing could compare to that glorious day where my greatest desire was realized. I knew that there would be obstacles to traverse, but they seemed small compared to the joy that awaited me. Nothing could distract me from receiving the prize.

Nonetheless, today, I often struggle with being excessively concerned with my earthly tent. I often let the lust of the flesh and the pride of life get the best of me. This is when I experience the most pain, because I’ve put too much stock into the fallen world. How much greater is our future glory over the temporary pleasures that this world can offer? When I begin to enjoy this earthly tent, it quickly disappoints me with evil, pain, lust or deceit.

CS Lewis stated, “We endure present pains so that we loosen our grip on this world and hold tight to heaven.”

Although we don’t give up on the redemption of this world, we must also realize that God will make a new heaven and a new earth that will be far greater than this current place of dwelling.

I experience the most joy when I have my mind and heart set on the LORD and that future glory. Death no longer scares me, lust is easier to flee and envy is an afterthought. In these moments, obedience is my pleasure and I desire to do whatever it takes to please the LORD.

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