Into the Fire

There can come a time when the past presents a longing. If those days long gone create reminders of people, places, and actions that make us yearn for how we once lived life, knowing it's all gone but not forgotten brings the clarity of mortality . . . and beyond.

Words, friendships, alliances, journeys, adventures, dares, all conjure memories we either cherish or wish we could forget.

Pain, loss, devastation versus joy, gain, and triumph, all combining to make life challenging and sometimes rewarding. Our decisions through hard times can give us an awareness of the brutal honesty of "You reap what you sow", watching it unfold in meaningful ways not only in our lives but in those we love and almost hate.

The past is a mirror of who we were, and perhaps of who we still remain. If who we are at our core changes, the reflection dims or shines with our new countenance. Has the present built on the past amplifed our badness or our goodness?

Those words we said we can't have back. We ready-aim-fired them off because of our rage or hurt, and they hit their mark, landing solid. We hope they're forgotten, but somehow they're etched in our recollections. And what about those words we didn't say. We should have said them. Should. Have. We still remember and regret our silence.

Are we redeemed by the Blood of the Lamb or are we self-appointed caretakers of our souls? Do we desire divine intervention or do we rely on what we can dig up and produce from our psyches? So much depends on what we choose now. The past continues with each rushing second. Ticking away.

We need salvation from our humanity – from our imperfection and what it produces in us and through us.

One truth. One answer. One way into eternity. How will you enter it?

Because the past is gone and continuing to its destiny. You can't have it back. 

Father, thank you for providing the only true rescue from this fallen life. Jesus, there are no words to convey the gratitude for what you've given us. Holy Spirit, how you can live in me is a miracle I cannot understand, but I'm so grateful. Lord of heaven and earth. Thank you. In the Name of Jesus, Amen.