Great Expectations

I’m teaching right now in the book of James and for me it has been quite challenging. To be a doer of the word (James 1:22) rather than a hearer (and talker!) only is a tough thing. It’s not so bad when things are going well but when times get difficult it gets more challenging. Continued Covid restrictions here in Canada, economic turmoil, health issues, relational strains, the never ending grind of life, all conspire together to distract us from what God calls us to do. We who call ourselves followers of Christ all nod our heads and agree we need to let our light shine in the world around us but then we get so…distracted.

I wonder if these are the trials James talks about that we are to consider pure joy (James 1:2)? Joy…trials?!?...the two don’t really seem to go together.

But then I read further and see that He chose to give us birth, and we are firstfruits, meaning the best of His creation (James 1:18) and that helps me press on.

Distractions are just that, distractions. God has a purpose and plan for us and He even has expectations. As Paul wrote to the church at Ephesus: “For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” (Ephesians 2:10).

Like the loving father He is, He doesn’t want or allow us to skate through life. We carry His name and bear His image. He EXPECTS things from us like doing what the Bible says, like living as firstfruits, like letting our light shine (Matthew 5:16). And oh, the reward that come when we do! It’s not only a heavenly one, which in itself is worthwhile, but one for today too. We are allowed to participate in His plans right here and now.

Where do I fit you may ask? I wish I could tell you but I don’t know, I’m no guru. It took me a long time to figure that out myself and I’m still seeking and finding the wonder of discovery. But I do know you need to look no further than what you are passionate about. Our father delights in giving good gifts (Matthew 7:11) and He works within the context of how He made you.

I’m so glad that God has expectations for me and He also has the patience to see them through! And yes, I’ve learned even during covid to find joy in the trials I’ve faced.