Thoughts for another day

March 27, 2007

Today's verse: Job 14:1. Man, who is born of woman, Is short-lived and full of turmoil. (NASB)
(Pls. read the above before you read further. Thanks)

In the Book of Job (pronounced jobe to rhyme with ‘lobe’ as in ear-lobe), we read about a man who is much dedicated to God. In all things he does right and obeys every precept of God. Yet, a devastating calamity strikes, corroding the very fabric of his integrity that hinged on his being right in the sight of God! Now as he sits facing a bleak future, there’s only the dark prospect of defending himself before others, an unenviable task given the atrocious twist of destiny; and perhaps, rather unwillingly, accepting the fact that somewhere along the path of life he must have sinned! Having said this, we must understand what God wants to tell us through the book. That there is a reality, far beyond the scope of human imagination. That there is purpose and clarity, even in the midst of entropy and utter chaos. As long as, God is on our side.

Aside from the plethora of questions that arise as to why, why, why… the book is also peppered with a number of truths that embrace life, and today’s verse is an example. Great philosophers have often wondered at the restlessness of man. Why does he want to move and move and move. Why does he yearn to go beyond the step he last took in understanding things, perhaps outside the boundaries of his wisdom? To fathom this, we need to go to the Book of Genesis. God creates man and puts him in command of all His creation. He gives man everything readymade – all kind of food - and also to the beasts of the field. The only condition as it were, was that man had to be rooted in God. Like the branches of a vine absorb its sap and flourish by being attached to it, man too had to be attached to God. But man lost it all when he sinned and disobeyed God. He became separated from God. He died…

My friend, only God has a cure for disturbances in life. When Martha was irritated that her sister Mary sat unconcerned at Jesus’ feet (Lk. 10:38-42) she voiced her indignation to the Lord who, in a gentle way admonished her, saying that there is need of only ‘one thing’ and since Mary has chosen that, it would not be taken from her. What’s this ‘one thing’? It is God Himself. To get rest, Jesus said, ‘Come to Me.’ for He knew that no human way or contraption could ever give rest. How can someone who is created in a particular manner of attaining peace, attain it any other way? We foolish people explore every other means to get it, rather than going to the One who can give it to us. But, today, you and I shall strike our hearts and get up and go to our Father, who is waiting to send every blessing our way. This dear friend, is the only way, we can enter His rest. And be at peace in the world, despite the turmoil.