As a child, a family vacation did not go as planned and I was traumatized by the let down. With the excitement and anticipation of a trip to Sea World, we turned around from the gate and headed back to the hotel once dad realized how expensive it was. Needless to say, I didn’t let dad forget that and it has become a frequent joke in our family. I was so close to seeing animals first hand that I’d heard about, yet proved to be so far away from living that dream.
I often reflect on that story during Christmas when I also see our culture so close to the truth, yet in reality so far away. During this Christmas season we are able to hear people use words like: HOPE, PEACE, and LOVE to express the joy of the season. It is sad that a person so close to the real Giver of gifts, but so wrong in theology. So close to the truth, yet separate from God.
In light of that, consider this question: WHAT IF WE ARE SO CLOSE TO REAL FAITH BUT HAVE ACCEPTED A FAKE AND ARE REALLY FAR AWAY? Similar to King Herod in Matthew 2, who was just a few miles from the King of Kings; we can allow our pride to prevent us from seeing God’s true purpose and plan for our life.
It all boils down to a matter of trust and faith! I learned to trust my parents even when I didn’t fully understand all the details about the vacation to Sea World. So it is with us, we must have the faith like a child as told my Christ in Matthew 18:3. Seek the truth to your questions and find them in Christ and His Word this Christmas season.