Wednesday, April 20, 2011

Comfortable or Comforted

If I were to ask the richest man in the world if he would like access to my checking account he would laugh hysterically (especially after seeing the amount in there). If I were to offer a meal to an executive chef of a notorious restaurant most likely he'd decline. If I were to offer a chic dress from my wardrobe to the up and coming Princess of England her answer would be a definite "No thank you!"
Why list such preposterous scenarios? To prove that those who have no need of a gift will decline offers of what they have an abundance of. Unless a person is greedy, gluttonous, or generous to give away what has been offered, too much is precisely that ~ too much! Who are the needy? Who are those truly insufficient, inadequate, incapable? Do I fall in the category of comfortable or needy? What about you?
In John 16:7 Jesus stated, "Nevertheless I tell you the truth. It is to your advantage that I go away; for if I do not go away, the Helper will not come to you; but if I depart, I will send Him to you." Jesus knew the disciples were quite comfortable having Him around. They marveled at His miracles, enjoyed meals around the fireside with Him, and drew strength from His daily encouragement and exhortation. Yet Jesus said, it would be better if He left their presence. Absence would make the heart grow fonder. "Alone-ness" would create a void that had to be filled. Familiarity often breeds carelessness, a taking for granted the invaluable around us. Jesus knew for the disciples being uncomfortable without Him would prove just how much they needed Him. He also knew for the rest of time those who need Him would yearn for His presence. His presence would be present for all eternity in the person of the Holy Spirit.
The disciples had the privilege of physically walking and talking with the God man. However, the Scripture is clear what would be better, to the advantage, was for Jesus to physically leave the earth and leave in His place, the Holy Spirit.
Has my life, your life been so comfortable that we have no need of the Comforter? Are we doing life in our own strength or in utter dependence of the Holy Spirit. Does my comfort come in the form of food, money, relationships, circumstances? Where does my help, my shelter, my comfort come from? Psalm 121 proclaims, "I lift up my eyes to the hills. From where does my help come? My help comes from the LORD, who made heaven and earth."
May we never become comfortable without the Comforter!