The River of Life
Over 30 years ago, I related a painful event to my father. In the years since, both the pain and the event have been forgotten, but I do remember the feeling. I felt that I had hurt my reputation in someone’s eyes because of something I had done. From our conversation, one thing has stayed with me all these years, and that one thing is the response my dad gave. After listening to my complaint, he replied, “Your life is like a river- it flows.” That simple statement fed my soul that day and gave me courage. It has also been a source of hope in the years since.
Countless times, I have repeated the thought of the flowing river of life to individuals in despair. Rivers are not stagnant, and neither is life. Life doesn’t stop for us when we err, and, in time, it washes itself clean. Rivers are vibrant and resilient. As long as there is life, there is hope, and those who find themselves truly happy understand this. I have often encouraged people to keep putting one foot in front of the other. The despair of today may not turn to joy tomorrow, but it may serve as a lesson learned, and those are valuable, too.
Pain is not eternal unless we choose to make it so. It seems like it is, but it’s not. That is not to say the memory does not remain, but the hurt lessens. Guilt and remorse can play a positive role in life, but they can also create havoc. Unless we understand life along with its difficulties and failings in the light of a flowing, ever-changing stream that is constantly renewing itself with new opportunities, we will become mired in the past and choked with regret. Because our eyes are downcast, we will never see the rising sun of a new day.
The possibility of change and renewal is integral in Scripture. Things can be different regardless of what that difference is. And it is our part in bringing the change to pass that heals. God forgives, but, as we out-work His forgiveness in our lives, we gain strength and hope. His affirmation and power propel us in our commitment. In time, God’s life is seen in us through our transformation. Our life with others and walk with God are progressive. They are continuous, cleansing, renewing and changing. Like a river.
God’s Word tells us of a Tree of Life and a River of Life. Movement and growth are great parts of God’s plan for us. The life of a believer is meant to be joyful and fulfilling, but it can never be so if we become sedentary. We have to keep going. That means deepening our lives with God, serving Him with greater vigor, living better and improving our relationships with people. Don’t allow the failures in your past to impede your progress. I know you sometimes become weary and discouraged. Jesus never is- with Himself, His plan or you.
Sterl
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