I am a coffee snob. I admit it! I must also confess I’m even a little proud of it. I’ve been spoiled with the depth and fullness of coffee that is well roasted and prepared, and find great satisfaction every day. The thing is, no matter how good a cup I experience today, I find myself wanting and even needing more of it later in the day or the next morning. I will also confess that my coffee habit may border on an unhealthy addiction, but this experience is one many of you can relate too.
This craving is a concept that Jesus portrayed in the Beattitudes. Specifically Matthew 5:6 uses words like “hunger and thirst” to describe a craving, or intense desire, for righteousness. In other words, desiring to be more like God.
If we were to poll those who profess to be Christians, I’m certain nearly 100% would say they desire to be like God. But when we compare that desire with actions we quickly notice a disparity. This is evidenced by the dissatisfaction in believers that are similar to non-believers.
Divorce rates among Christians are similar to non-Christians. Believers struggle with materialism just like non-believers. So why are so many followers of Jesus seemingly dissatisfied? Perhaps many are craving the wrong things.
A statement of indenting is offering by Jesus in Matthew 5:6 that satifisation awaits those who strive, or crave, righteousness. It does not promise satisfaction for those who have achieved righteousness. This could lead us to a works based faith that focuses on a legalistic formula of cause and effect.
Rather Jesus challenges and calls us into a relationship where we understand our redemptions and who He has called us to be. This is a statement of being, rather than doing. 1 Corinthians 1:30 paints a picture of the beauty of being in Christ. In Him we have redemption and righteousness. The best that I can bring to the table is no better than the cloth to wrap a dead body in (Isaiah 64:6).
What if we found rest in Him and walked with confidence in who He has called us to be and how He has called us to live? My craving for righteousness will lead me to wise choices of leadership and loyalty to Him as my King. Meditate on that deep well as you sip your cup of coffee.