In the past three weeks I have dressed in layered, insulated clothing to stay warm while working on a retaining wall outside, while a day or two later I restocked our firewood pile in short sleeves. Just two days ago (Saturday) the mercury touched 68 but this morning (Monday) the whole family is once again gathered by the fireplace sipping hot chocolate while an abundance of ice and sleet covers the yard. What’s up with all this weird weather?
Although the meteorologists have been fairly accurate on their weekly predictions, no one seems to have had a clue about the up and down temps and strange precipitation patterns that have characterized the latter part of our winter. While such bizarre seasonal occurrences are not altogether unheard of, their relative scarcity tends to generate conversation about the uncertainty of the future. Could greenhouse gases be at fault? Fossil fuels? Coal burning power plants? The list of possibilities is endless.
Many of the concerns and questions of contemporary society relate to somewhat different issues than those of only a generation or two ago, much less those of the first century, but the root of our concern for uncertainty remains the same. The anxious religious leaders of the first century questioned Jesus’ authority and authenticity. They were constantly asking Him to prove Himself with miraculous signs. On one occasion Jesus plainly answered their request by saying, “An evil and adulterous generation craves for a sign; and yet no sign will be given to it but the sign of Jonah the prophet” (Matt 12:39 NASB). Although they believed in His coming and genuinely anticipated Messiah’s arrival, they were so caught up in their own ideas of Him and His futuristic role they continually questioned His legitimacy and ultimately rejected Him. They were not ready.
This past week I was again reminded that true faith conquers my leaning toward anxiety and worry about what’s ahead; in spite of the proverbial weather and its inconsistency. Following a stern warning to those who put their safety and trust in wealth, Jesus advises His followers to seek the kingdom of God first, then, other things will be provided for us (Lk 12:13ff.). Being a born-again child of God has already placed me (us) in Christ, therefore, if my (our) priorities derive from genuinely seeking God’s will, work and ways (kingdom) in our life, provision will always result; regardless of the exterior climate. Abiding in Christ provides all the needed protection from any weapon formed against the believer!
Rest in His provision!
Happy Spring!…..(almost!)