Wisdom teeth. In one word a nuisance. Sitting silent, at random they choose to make their appearance. Whether they press through or not, they may be the source of pain, or infection that spreads to surrounding teeth. In America, most dentists recommend their removal as a prevention for all the complication that could or do arise from their presence.
Why am I writing about this? What does it have to do with anything worthwhile? Having firsthand just gone through all four of my wisdom teeth being removed I have lived to tell about it. But, why it matters is that it caused me to think of spiritual implications. What's below the surface in our lives, our hearts? Is there a sin or impurity lying within, perhaps without our even noticing, yet that could cause problems at any moment? If it comes out on it's own, pain and problems are sure to follow. If it lies below the surface, it could start wrecking havoc on all that surrounds it, slowly but surely. So, does "prevention" and "removal" have anything to do with our spiritual lives? I would argue that these words apply, that self-examination is necessary, and should even be a regular aspect of our lives.
Self-examination is a necessary, though admittedly painful, process for selfish, proud creatures. A thought from J. Wesley particularly struck me this week: "humility includes the awareness that we all live with a well-practiced ability for self-deception." Pride, a root of all sorts of sins, is something we are continually in need of rooting out. A constant reminder of who God is, and in turn who we are, should help us in riding us of ourselves. Any sin lying below the surface needs to be recognized and rooted out. If allowed to stay, unhindered growth and spiritual life will be affected by sin's presence. I'm thankful for a gracious God, who helps us in this process, healing us, transforming us more into the image of His dear Son. So despite the pain or discomfort the removal of sin may create, it's worth it to live in the freedom Christ purchased for us and desires for us to walk in!
No comments:
Post a Comment