Memories and Maturity

Do you remember your childhood?  I mean the whole thing?  Na, neither do I, but it’s funny how there are certain memories that stick and are easy to recall.  I remember the first time I lit off an M-80 firecracker and the riding 4 wheelers around the wheat filled landscape of Colorado.  I remember Saturday morning cartoons and corn pops!  I also remember this day when the whole family was driving into Denver to do some grocery shopping at the larger grocery store.  The drive was about 30 minutes because we lived in the country and most of the way there my parents where in an argument.  Funny how I remember that….well when we pulled into the parking lot I sat up from the back seat and told my parents… “What you are fighting about is just stupid!”

Needless to say I remember what happened next very well as their attention shifted to me….opps!  What got me frustrated was they could not even remember what started the argument.

Ever been there?  I think those moments teach us we need more maturing.  The Bible tells us “My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.”  (Psalm 73:26)  It never amazes me how hard it is to do something responsible for my irresponsibility.  I really do think it is one of the hardest things a person does. 

When we ask for forgiveness we go against every grain of our being that employs defenses like denial, excuses or rationalizations.  So regardless of whom it is, our spouses, friends, kids, employers or Jesus Himself, seeking forgiveness is our healthiest course of action.

During this Christmas season you will be offering many gifts to others.  Gifts you spend time, money and energy to put together and give away.  Why not give the best gift that truly represents what Christmas is all about…forgiveness.