It can be quite exhausting trying to be a Christian and a human being with the world as an audience. As a believer, I am not perfect. I do not make all the right decisions. I make mistakes. I do not have a life free of regrets. I don't think I am "holier than thou." I am not better than anyone. I do not think I am worthy or deserving of anything good. I am a weak vessel on my best days.
Sometimes, the world thinks if you bear the name of the Christ, you should be perfect, a door mat, even. They are watching closely to scrutinize. And no matter how much I try to do the right thing and make the right decisions, I won't always hit the mark. I am guaranteed to make mistakes, even when not intentional; however, the world is not supposed to be my standard; the Word is, and it promises me a new and transformed life through Jesus. It promises forgiveness and also tells me to forgive. It promises God as my strength when I am weak.
The Word also points me to look at Jesus as my standard and not to anyone else on this journey. I can feebly attempt to point you to Him, but I will never fill His shoes.
In my brokenness and imperfection, Jesus bends down and meets me there. He says, "Come as you are."
He looks me in tear filled eyes, hugs me and says, "I'm here. You don't have to be perfect. I took care of that on the cross. I was perfect and was still crucified. Perfectionism was literally crucified on an old rugged cross...." He pulls back from the embrace holding up His hands, "Look at the proof in my nail scarred hands. I did that for you knowing you would never be perfect on earth. I love you. All you need to do is take up your cross and follow Me."
Being a believer actually means recognizing my need for a Savior. It means on my best days and my worst days, I have a Helper, a lover of my soul. It's only by the blood of Jesus I keep going. It's by His grace and His mercy I am still breathing. I am not strong enough to do it on my own. And I'm so glad I don't have to be. You don't have to be either!
What do you need to lay down at the foot of the cross today?
"But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me."
2 Corinthians 12:9
