Has life gotten in a rut for you? Each day seems like a miserable repeat of the day before. There is little joy or expectation when you awake. It reminds me of the movies - dark clouds, blustery wind, bitter cold and pelting rain attacks the hapless hero. A vivid image of how our lives can quickly become without a vision or dream.
I think back to the anticipation and excitement I had just prior to turning sixteen. I could hardly wait to get out of bed every day - each morning represented one less day until I got my driver's license! We have experienced the same feeling of hope and anticipation with relationships, marriage, careers and our children. Why? Because we had a vision of things to come! In our minds, we could see where these life-changing dreams would take us.
But over the years, the excitement dies, doubt replaces hope and anticipation becomes dread. We recognize that reality does not necessarily reflect our hopes and dreams. We soon look like all of the other people walking the streets with a blank, worried expression. I challenge you to count the people in a crowded airport (or on the street) that are walking alone and smiling. Why? The fire of hope has become a flickering candle as their vision or dream slowly dies within them.
As Christians, we should be one of the few in a crowded place smiling while being alone. Why? Because we have a vision with a promise - In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also. (John 14:2-3).
Are you looking forward to your mansion? Can you imagine the place the creator has prepared just for you? Can you describe the joy of being with your Savior? The anticipation and excitement should be adequate to put a beaming smile on our face even as we trudge through life's daily chores. Hopefully, I can count your smile in the next airport!
