Accepting the relativity of the term "old" as applied to sports, it stands to reason that teams see a drop-off in performance as stars pass their prime. The question becomes, "What do we do about it?" Some will capitalize on the veterans' wisdom and experience by turning them into mentors for younger players. Some will drop the dead weight, clear some salary cap space and reload with rookie talent. One thing you'll never see, at least on a winning team, is a bunch of guys sitting around saying, "Woe is us. We were so much better a few years ago. I guess those days are over."
Haggai warned the people of Israel about just such a defeatist attitude as they neared the completion of their temple rebuilding project. "Who is left among you who saw this house in its former glory? How do you see it now? Is it not as nothing in your eyes?" (Haggai 2:3) Without a doubt, this reconstructed house of worship couldn't hold a candle to the splendor of Solomon's temple. It would have been easy for those who invested time, energy and money to be discouraged and wonder whether it was all worth it. So God sent this word: "Be strong, all you people of the land… Work, for I am with you… according to the covenant that I made with you when you came out of Egypt. My Spirit remains in your midst. Fear not." (Haggai 2:4-5)
The presence of God among His people and the work of His Spirit in their midst has always been more important than the tangible trappings of ministry. The new temple may have been small and plain in comparison to the glorious structure that preceded it. But the fact that they had built it, in obedience to God, meant that His blessings were already beginning to be poured out on them abundantly. Haggai also challenged the people to look forward to a day when. "'The treasures of all nations shall come in, and I will fill this house with glory,' says the LORD of hosts… 'The latter glory of this house shall be greater than the former'." (Haggai 2:7-9)
We all go through seasons of life where we're tempted to look back wistfully at the "glory days." We don't seem to be reaching as many people, having as great an impact or feeling as much joy as before. In those times, it's especially important to remember that God is with us, and as we obey, His Spirit is at work – whether we see it or not. Sports teams, temples, ministries and individual lives all go through "rebuilding phases." If you're in one now, cling to the promises of God's presence and His return. He has so much more in store for us than we can see now.
No comments:
Post a Comment