Speaking Of Life 1033 | Passport Reminders

Heber Ticas

If you have ever traveled to a foreign country, you probably have one of these – a passport. [Hold up passport]

Without a passport you will have a very difficult time getting back home.

Personally, when I’m waiting in line to reenter the country, I’m constantly checking to see if I have my passport. Even though I know I had it when I got in line, I still pull it out many times, just to remind myself it’s still there. It sounds a bit compulsive, but I know that no matter how big I grin at passport control, without my passport, it’s going to be a very long day. So, I repeatedly look at it. It’s not like my passport will disappear if I don’t pull it out every 15 minutes. But when I see it in my hand, my anxiety disappears. I’m reminded that all is good and soon I’ll be home.

Wouldn’t it be nice if all of our anxieties and fears could be settled simply by looking at a passport?

Thankfully, Jesus gives us something far superior than a legal document to look at; he gives us himself. While he has given us a home in his kingdom, we will often feel like foreigners in our temporary home – no matter what country we live in. Like waiting to cross a border, our anxieties and fears can grow over being left in foreign territory. But Jesus is with us. As we turn our eyes to him, we are reminded that God is good and trustworthy to bring us home.

There are many ways to turn our eyes to see the Lord. Prayer, reading scripture, praise and worship. And don’t forget fellowship with others who are looking in the same direction. These methods remind us again and again that the Lord is faithful. He doesn’t leave us when we don’t turn to him. But when we do, our faith grows to overtake our anxieties.

Here is a good Psalm that will help you turn your eyes toward him as you start or end your day.

“To you, O Lord, I lift up my soul. O my God, in you I trust; do not let me be put to shame; do not let my enemies exult over me. Do not let those who wait for you be put to shame; let them be ashamed who are wantonly treacherous. Make me to know your ways, O Lord; teach me your paths. Lead me in your truth, and teach me, for you are the God of my salvation; for you I wait all day long.” (Psalm 25:1-2)

If you find yourself waiting in a long line at the border, I hope you remembered your passport.

But if you find yourself in a long wait for the Lord, I suggest you look around and see his presence. Ask him to remind you of the Father’s goodness and faithfulness to you. You’ll see in his eyes that you’re home free.

I’m Heber Ticas, Speaking of Life