I think about some of the things I am desperate for; to see my daughters eyes and hear her laugh, to build upon our retirement fund and feel secure in my families future, to graduate seminary before I am 50, to make just a little more money so that I can provide my family with nicer things, to see unbelievers and marginal Christians build a strong relationship with Christ, to own a home again, for our cat (Rufus) to live a full and healthy life amidst his diagnosis of chronic kidney failure, to nurture a great marriage of 5 years into 50+, and to drive a car with air-conditioning and operable power-steering. I feel these are all important, and there is a feeling of urgency that often prompts me to call upon God for divine assistance (maybe not so much with the car).
Take a moment and think of the things you are desperate for, if possible take out a pen and paper and write them down. Now take 5 minutes to watch this video, taking careful attention to what Zac, in the midst of his situation, is desperate for.
Letter to Zac from NewSpring Production on Vimeo.
Now, look at your list again... if you wrote it down, circle those things you are still desperate for and cross off those things that no longer seem quite as important. It is my hope that all of us, like Zac, can find the difference between desperation for God and our own wants and needs. Notice that Zac never said he was desperate for a cure... his desperation was focused on what he could do for others and how he could better his relationship with God. I am in awe.
Think about this: "Do I chase the blessings of God more than the presence? I don't want God to simply be a new vehicle for the things I want. I want God to be what I want" (Jon Acuff). God must be so much more than a spiritual Santa Clause. All things in this life will pass away, but our relationship with Christ (or lack thereof) is eternal.
