"A Lesson from Moncton"

This is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance (and for this we labor and strive), that we have put our hope in the living God, who is the Savior of all men, and especially of those who believe. Command and teach these things. (1 Timothy 4:9-11 NIV).

Aaron, my son, is in Moncton, New Brunswick, Canada to complete some research. While it is very expensive to use the cell phone from there to here, the internet has been a means to keep in touch. I guess this is one of those times when I am very glad for all the technology that I so often bemoan! Just the other day, he was interviewed on the Canadian Radio Network. He had emailed and told me it was going to happen, so naturally I asked if I could “tune in” via the internet. Well, unfortunately I couldn’t, however the station did post it to their website and I listen to it just a little while ago. It was great to hear his voice! However, since the entire interview was in French the only two words I understood were “Aaron” and “Emmitte” when they introduced him!

I tell you that little story simply to introduce you to a concept that is vital to your present life. These are such difficult times for so many people. As I wrote yesterday, “Our redemption draws near.” I know that is true, but I am afraid it is not often practiced in a way that is helpful. Christians are incurably forward-looking. Often that makes any challenge much more difficult to deal with practically. We do need to live with knowledge of the future’s victory, but we also need to apply that victory to the present.

That’s what came to my mind as I listened to Aaron’s interview. Even though I did not understand what was said, I know who said it. His tone of voice, the tempo of the conversation, the joy expressed in the laughter at times, all of the conversation reminded me of who he is. You see, I don’t understand all the unfolding of events and experiences in my life. I just don’t know that “language.” It is a divine language of eternal perspective and scope. However, every experience is understood in the knowledge I have of the One speaking. I know Jesus, so I can know that whatever happens, my future is secure and today is merely a temporary event that will pass. That gives me the hope I need to keep going every day!

That hope produces so many other blessings. I know that death, which is the result of sin, will be a thing of the past. Sorrow, fear, suffering, pain all will be gone! Our gracious God will wipe every tear from our eyes. Our struggles will be over, too. Then, for the first time, we shall be fully satisfied as we enjoy all of what God has prepared for us. No wonder the Apostle Paul tells Timothy to “command and teach these things”! When we teach them, people may learn them. If they learn them, they may experience them. If they experience them, they will overcome their challenges successfully and enjoy the blessing of real peace and joy! That’s a lesson worth learning!