Fully Alive

There is a big difference between existing and living.

We all know the difference in ourselves when we are suffering through the days, sludging through existence, and those moments where we are truly alive and awake to purpose and meaning. Irenaeus, a second century saint, once said “The Glory of God is man fully alive.” I think he’s right. God wants us fully alive, engaged in our life, not cold, timid, disengaged, choosing to criticize rather than to contribute. In 2020, it seems to be harder to be fully alive. We are less Irenaeus and more Mumford and Sons, “How fickle my heart and how woozy my eyes!” as the lyric goes.

Paul encouraged the Corinthian church with this message:

“16 Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day.

17 For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all.

18 So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.”

2 Corinthians 4:16-18

What does he mean? He means that the secret to being fully alive is realizing you will live forever. Not only that, but you have this life inside of you that is aging in reverse to your body. You are being renewed by the Spirit inside, even though on your skin there are more sunspots than the year before. You can’t see the Spirit, but it’s true. Fix your eyes on Him. Don’t lose heart.

Whatever it is that’s cutting you down, it is temporary. You are not!

Pastor Jared

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