My generation is the most connected of any generation before
it yet is quite possibly also the loneliest. Many of us have been the first in
our families to move out of the state and settle elsewhere due to the mobility
we’ve been afforded, yet few of us have planted deep roots anywhere for any
substantial amount of time. And we have more self-help books and wellness
programs than ever before, yet most of us feel lost and are overweight.
Over the last several years I’ve been able to identify with
most of these things. I can “Skype” with friends in Africa but most of my
closest friends from even five years ago are now scattered across the globe in
places like Zambia, the Middle East, East Asia, and the four corners of
America. Technology is no replacement for face-to-face relationships.
Places that were once filled with almost all the people we
loved have slowly been deserted. It’s funny, almost scary, how places that seem
like “home” for a season can quickly lose that status.
And my wife and I were the first in our immediate families
to move away for a time, yet post-college, we’ve never spent more than a couple
years in a single place.
As relationships, people, and places come and go, it’s easy
to feel like a homeless wanderer.
But tonight, I’m grateful for having found a home in the
Gospel of Jesus Christ.
In my moments of loneliness and seclusion, it’s the Gospel
that provides intimacy. In the moments where I’m most keenly aware of the
temporary and fleeting nature of life, it’s the Gospel that supplies
permanence. In moments of self-doubt and questioning, it’s the Gospel that
offers identity. And when I feel weak, insignificant, and broken, it’s the Gospel
that gives strength, loving affirmation, and healing.
God-willing, it will be many, many years before all of the
friends and family that have passed through our lives at one time or another
will be reunited at a great Banquet, and that too is only possible through the
Gospel.
But even now, I do have a home, and His name is Jesus.
Come to me, all you
who are weary and burdened
And I will give you
rest
Take my yoke upon you
and learn from me
For I am gentle and
humble in heart
And you will find rest
for your souls
For my yoke is easy
and my burden is light
-CK
