Feast And Famine
Louise Harris
This week I've been reflecting on the highs and lows of life.
It's been a bit of a crazy time recently, with plenty of ups and downs - such is the roller coaster that we ride sometimes!
A couple of weeks ago we went on a corporate trip to a gorgeous spot in Ireland, staying in probably the most luxurious hotel I've ever experienced. It was extremely comfortable, the food was excellent, and the service was fantastic - the staff literally couldn't do enough for us. They really went the extra mile to make us feel special. Even better, it was all expenses paid. It's amazing how quickly you can get used to being totally spoilt. ‘This is the life’, I thought, ‘I could get used to living like a rich person’.
Roll on a couple of days, and it was back home late on one day & back to work early the following day. It was a painful experience as I wearily opened my laptop to find a mountain of work to climb and I was quickly brought back down-to-earth, dealing with challenging managers, trying to deliver what they wanted and keep a smile on my face. What a contrast – I was the one doing the serving now!
It has led me to some reflections:
So the last will be first, and the first will be last.
Matthew 20:16
The topsy turvy kingdom of God, where the last shall be first and the first shall be last, is such a different concept from the world we live in and based on completely different values.
God’s kingdom economy is the exact opposite of what the world thinks is valuable. It’s not about what we can earn or what we own, it’s all about him and his amazing grace.
Talking of grace, how wonderful is our heavenly Father at staying close by us as we navigate the valleys and mountains tops of life. He is always there to bring calm, peace and perspective, giving us strength and comfort when we need it most. Like any Father, I am sure he celebrates with us in times of joy too, and loves to see his children happy.
We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure.
Hebrews 6:19
Whether life is on an up or a down, or even just bobbing along, how blessed we are to have him as our Anchor – keeping us grounded and reminding us of what really matters.
