Renovation Part 2

                                                                                                Renovation Part 2

Photo by Ameia Grace Photography

And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ.  Phil. 1:6 (ESV) 

Putting on a pot of coffee, the woman sits down in a dry spot while God finishes His inspection. Trying to relax, she finds it difficult to look Him in the face as He pours Himself a cup of coffee and sits down across from her. Looking up, she sees dirty smudges on His clothing and His face. She notices that He must have washed His hands, however, because though they are scarred and callused, they are immaculately clean.   Finally, her eyes meet His. 

“Well, daughter, it looks like we have a lot of work to do.”

“I was afraid of that. How much is it going to cost me?” 

Gently, he replies, “You could never afford the cost. Fortunately, you don’t have to. The debt has already been paid for you. All that you have to do is to allow Me to have continuous and unlimited access to your home for the duration of the project.” 

“So how long are you thinking the renovation will take?” 

“With as much structural damage as I have found on my preliminary inspection, it’s probably going to take a very long time—quite possibly your entire lifetime.” 

“What?!  That long? Can’t you work faster than that?” 

“You could just continue being your own repairman...”  Standing up, he puts His coffee cup in the sink. Looking at her, he says, “It is your choice, my daughter, but may I remind you that your choices up to this point have resulted in the house you now live in.  I am the Master Builder and Repairman. No other one has the plans I have made for you nor the power to carry them out.” 

Hesitating, the woman replies, “I want what’s best for me and my house, but I don’t know if I am comfortable having you here every day with me—no space or time to myself.  I’m not used to living in Your presence.” 

“It’s true. The way you live your life will be impacted by the work I am doing here. But I promise you, it will be worth it.”  Softly and tenderly He adds, “The choice is yours, my love.” 

Looking up quickly as she hears His words, the woman’s eyes are drawn to His.  Overwhelmed by the love she sees there, she replies softly, “I am willing.”  

Walking towards her, He puts one strong and capable hand on her shoulder while gently cupping her face with the other. A tender smile tugs on the corners of His mouth and His eyes sparkle with love and anticipation.  “I am delighted that you have entrusted this great work to My care.  And I can’t wait to finish!  Come.  Let me show you My initial plans.”  

How comfortable are you in His presence?  The measure of our growth and maturity in Him is directly related to how much time we give Him to work in our hearts.  It is a choice—a choice often enabled by a gentle reminder of His love.  Search His face. Watch His hands.  Listen well.  His love will give us the courage to say, “I am willing.”