For I considered all this in my heart, so that I could declare it all: that the righteous and the wise and their works arein the hand of God. People know neither love nor hatred byanything they seebefore them. All thingscomealike to all: One event happensto the righteous and the wicked; To the good, the clean, and the unclean; To him who sacrifices and him who does not sacrifice. As is the good, so isthe sinner; He who takes an oath as hewho fears an oath.
This is a bitter pill to swallow. Why doesn't God recognize my good works in His service and shout out an atta-boy to the rest of the world to hear? The answer is simple whether I like it or not. I must not hunger for the recognition of the world. That's similar to the Israelite's hunger for the leeks and garlics of Egypt.
No, I am called to keep my eye on the greater prize; the precious “well done” from my Lord and Master. His assurance that in the here and now my life did reflect a conviction “that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to Hispurpose.” Romans 8:28
Yes, I trip and stumble, I grumble and complain when things don't go to suit me but sooner or later I hear a thin, high tenor in the background singing a little ditty, “When things don't go to suit you and the world seems upside down, smile away your troubles and chase away that frown” Yes, Grandpa Spence, the same beloved grandpa from yesterday's Voices.
Readings
Morning Psalm 43, Noon Psalm 119:153-160, Evening Psalm 95
