Wednesday, April 29, 2009

No Fool

"'You've said enough,' David replied. 'I've decided that you and Ziba will divide your land equally between you.' 'Give him all of it,' Mephibosheth said. 'I am content just to have you safely back again, my lord the king!'" 2 Samuel 19:29-30

Land surrendered for love.

Makes me wonder.

What would cause me to relinquish possession of 'land' for something greater?

Mephibosheth chose wisely. Relationship over resources. Restoration trumped resentment.

Our 'land' could represent numerous belongings that are keeping us from belonging.

Bitterness. Unforgiveness. Pride. Anger. Materialism. Position. Prestige.

Outwardly many appear to have it all. Their 'land' looks lush. Big home. Cottage by the sea. Vacations. Wealth. Appearance. Degrees. Health. Yet, the lawn that looks so lovely to the eye is covering mud, dirt and clay. Beneath the surface, behind the closed door of the heart, lonliness abides. Like Mephibosheth, they too would surrender it all for something they desire more. 'Land' again would be eagerly exchanged for love.

"He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep to gain what he cannot lose." Jim Elliot

In this life there are many "I cannot keeps". Besides the obvious, when my life here has ended, I am also going to leave behind feelings, reactions, comparisons, worry, tears, hurt, disappointment and fear. All of these too will perish. Desires and dreams will be abandoned. Strivings will cease. There is something bigger. Someone bigger so worthy of the surrender of all else. He is more than willing to keep that which I've committed unto Him against that day.

I leave you with two questions today.

What 'land' do you need to release, and, what is worthy of such a surrender?



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3 comments:

On Purpose said...

I want my song today to be...

"I surrender All"

"All to Jesus I surrender, all to Him freely give..."

Unreasonable Grace said...

What a powerful word. You've given something huge to ponder and meditate on today.
kim

Lisa Smith said...

beautiful words, joy. love, love the quote. you've left me with much to ponder.