Living Life to the Fullest
Scripture Reading — Proverbs 8:32-36
The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.
It’s time to listen to Jesus. God is not a spoilsport, eager to make our lives dull or dismal. His Son came to restore what was destroyed, to give life instead of death. Christ’s message is the message of wisdom personified. We are called to live in harmony with the Creator and his creation. The Lord promises his blessings to those who keep Wisdom’s ways. It’s a matter of listening to Wisdom’s instruction, being wise, and obeying the life teachings presented.
Lady Wisdom promises life and favor from the Lord. She anticipates Jesus’ promise of life “to the full.” Life as God intended it for his children is the life of dreams fulfilled, promises kept, and relationships enjoyed. It’s the life of doing what’s right and being a blessing to others, showing God’s love in all we do. Full life builds community that reflects God’s perfect unity, opening arms of love and care for everyone, promoting justice and right living so that all can flourish, living to their full potential in shalom with God and one another. This is life as God intends it to be, filled with joy, peace, goodness, fruitfulness, and much more.
Just as Jesus contrasts himself with the thief who destroys, Wisdom contrasts the life of God’s favor with harming oneself and loving death. It remains a life and death matter. Do we want life in Christ, or death in sin? It’s time to listen!
Lord, give us eyes of wisdom to see your design for the full life of loving, caring, and enjoying your favor. Empower us with your Spirit, we pray, in Jesus’ name. Amen.
About the author — George Vink
Pastor George Vink has served as a pastor in the Christian Reformed Church for more than 30 years in British Columbia, Montana, Michigan, and California. He and his wife, Shirley, have four married sons and nine grandchildren.
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