a very strange place

by Claire Axcell

As humans, we occupy a very strange place in the universe.

We are created as the image bearers of God, yet that nature is corrupted by the actions of Adam and Eve in the garden.

We can see this so clearly in the world around us, we are capable of creating works of such beauty that it makes one weep, and acts of such violence that we don’t believe the telling of it.

As a Christian, the list of ‘do nots’ can seem overwhelming and never ending. Condemnation and guilt seemingly appearing around every corner like an angry pulpit preacher ready to condemn you to fire and brimstone. Or the opposite where people will tell you ‘if God is love then he would want me to ...’ Where God is almost reduced to a stereotypical hippie whose mantra is all about ‘free love’ and ‘whatever dude.’

In the end God seems to emerge from such imagery as a joyless stern creature, whose only goal is to rob us of every happiness, and we’re continually on the back foot.

As a parent, I know that my children are capable of both amazing acts of kindness and stupidity. However if I was to attempt to correct all of their stupidity in one fell swoop, all I would gain would be misery of the acutest kind.

Over the years I have learned to pick my battles, to concentrate on one thing at a time. To approach them with patience, mercy, a sense of humour and love.

Small steps put together equal marathons when viewed in the rear view mirror.

Research shows that it can take an average of five recovery attempts to successfully resolve drug and alcohol issues. Whilst this can seem very disheartening, research also shows that even a short period of a few weeks abstaining from a harmful behaviour can rewire and heal your brain.

When we take a step back from things that harm us, it is worthwhile to remember that we are in a marathon not a sprint and to take it one step at a time. As Eugene H Peterson states, walking with Christ is ‘long obedience in the same direction.’

Which results in what Paul states in

2 Corinthians 3:18 that as we ‘reflect on God, we are slowly being transformed from glory to glory’ to be more like him.

Father,

Thank you for being so kind and patient with us. That you so loved us, that you sent your son to do what we could not. Help me when I struggle, trip and fall. Help me with every step I take beside you, help me to walk with you in faith and obedience.

In your name

Amen