Mean…

Mean…

This cat looks so sweet. He meows gently, seeking affection and food. However, when petted, he is somewhat mean. He will use his claws to keep you from moving away or getting too close, whatever he chooses. As humans, we do the same thing. We often put on fake personas to draw the world in or hide from others. When we truly are exposed, what lies beneath the fake exterior is who we are.

Some of my students think I am mean. I have to be very strict and stern in order to maintain classroom behavior in certain classes. The ones who know me, know that I love them dearly. Those who choose to misbehave, think I'm mean. They see the consequences of actions and perceive that as my fault and "I'm mean".

You see, we often do the same thing with God. We misbehave and suffer the consequences of our actions. Sometimes, people see God as a vengeful God who is ruling from afar. Hebrews 10:30, "For we know Him who said, “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,” and again, “The Lord will judge His people.” God does judge, but this is a righteous judgment. He pours out His judgment on our enemies, protects us from those who seek to harm us, and provides correction when we stray. Sometimes, he removes His hand of protection from us in judgment.

But God is not a far off God. He is here, close to us, providing us with nourishing love. Ephesians 3:17-19, "so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God." I know that when I sin, God's judgment is righteous. I know what I get, I fully deserve. I also know that I have a loving Father who loves me unconditionally. In that knowledge, I can go to the Father, seek His forgiveness, and be comforted.