From time to time, an honest appraisal of our own life is a necessity. It is astounding in such times of personal scrutiny to find how far we really are from the place we thought ourselves to be. A merchant from time to time will take an inventory of his stock, perhaps for tax reports or other reasons. It is necessary that we also note the goods that have accumulated on our own shelves.
Let us first look into our past life. What do we see there? Undoubtedly we will find failures as well as some success, but probably the thing that will trouble us is that there will be so much unfulfilled desire. Perhaps we have had at on time great and holy desire to bless our fellow man but somehow through the years we have neglected those noble plans. Do we find ourselves today in a narrow place between necessity and self-interest, and does it seem all but impossible to extricate ourselves?
Man has a tendency to develop a downward look. As he grows older he may find it increasingly easy to think on earthly things. Noble dreams are usually the product of unselfish desire. They usually come to us when we look up and our mind soars above the earthly and the commonplace. Yet I can see no reason why we should not retain the zeal of youth with its attendant desire to share with others, if we will put forth an honest effort in that direction.
I am sure today the desire for noble deeds, charitable acts and godliness comes from a higher realm than this old earth. Perhaps our feet are so firmly pressed into earthly soil that we cannot get our head into the clouds. The Word of God suggests that a prerequisite of translation or redemption is the upward look. "Unto those who look for Him shall He appear," and "Look up, for your redemption draweth nigh."
If after a careful look at our life we see our need of something higher and better, why not retrace our steps to God. If we have lost something through the years, it is not too late to redeem it. God is eternal. God is love. The good father longingly watches for the return of the prodigal. You will find him, my friend, with open arms and a kiss of forgiveness. He has a ring for your finger and a new robe. There is plenty to spare in your father's house. Why eat your heart out with unfulfilled desire. Let us return to God. He is still more willing to give than we are to receive. Great in love, abundant in mercy, is our God. His word is still directed toward thee. "Ask and ye shall receive; seek and ye shall find; knock and it shall be opened unto thee."
If somehow you have lost yourself in the maze of earthly things, let us turn now to the Lord. By seeking often that quiet place of prayer you will be able to find yourself again. Before you once more will open doors of service for your master and your fellow men. Think not that the time for great and noble deeds if we will find ourselves in God once more.
Perhaps today you feel yourself to be a Christian believer, yet you are walking below you privilege in Him. Friend, There are many deep stirrings in honest hearts these days. God is seeking for men who will stand in the gap and make up the hedge. Will you heed the call and from your place on bended knee answer, "Here am I Lord, send me."?
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