When we think quietly and calmly about our life’s journey since our birth, it makes us wonder as to how we survived so far. Our life’s daily physical hardship, psychological and emotional anguish, and serious health issues, most part become obstacles in our lives, yet we were able to overcome it. Moreover, when things don’t go according to our plan, our faith will be tested. In spite of our doubts and failures in this life what it is that kept us lively? Is it because of our life’s strategic plans, higher education and paying jobs, inherited wealth, business successes, hard work or something else?, Or is it just a “faith?” If so, what “faith” is that led you and me so far?
Yesterday, as the last day of 2016 ended, few pondering thoughts came to my mind and one of those thoughts inspired me to write a blog on that topic. I’m sure last night, like me as the year ended many of us reflected on our past years’ journey. Unexpectedly, last year most of us lost few known people, friends, relatives, leaders, and unknown people too. This loss once again reminded us of our short life in this world.
In fact, two years ago, unexpectedly I lost my own brother in an accident at a young age, and I’m still unable to recover from the grief of his death. Yes, every year even media reports losing of few well-known celebrities and great leaders reminding us the loss of lives. Where did they go? Or, where did his or soul go? What faith journey did he or she take? My curiosity prompted me to ask these questions and required immediate answers.
After searching I found the answers nowhere to these question other than the “Holy Bible.” I think Apostle Paul’s famous statement helps us to understand our life’s faith journey very well. He stated that “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith (2 Timothy 4:7 NKJV).” How did he keep his faith? According to the Bible, “faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen (Heb. 11:1 NKJV).” “But without faith, it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him (Heb. 11.6 NKJV).” As I know keeping faith on daily basis is not an easy task in this busy world, but requires discipline and devotion. Once again the word of God reminds us that faith comes by hearing His word (Rom.10:17 NKJV).
Who first passed on this faith to us (Gentiles)? Yes, as we know it was none other than Apostle Paul in 1st century as he states that “But when it pleased God, who separated me from my mother’s womb and called me through His grace, to reveal His Son in me, that I might preach Him among the Gentiles, I did not immediately confer with flesh and blood (Gal. 1: 15-16 NKJV).” In addition, who first passed on this faith in our family in the 20th century? Yes, it was none other than John Wesley, and his ministry; therefore, I admire him. How about you? Please share your thoughts and comments. Appreciated.