Sometimes the sun seems to be blistering hot. There are also those days in which the air seems oppressive, heavy, and muggy. In these modern times we seek relief with the air conditioner, but how about in days past? Or if you are out working in that situation, what can bring relief? In my experience I have often sought the relief of a shadow or shade. It is amazing how much relief that can bring not only to the body, but to the mind.
Have you kept your focus this week? What is it that helps you get through each day and through each situation that may confront you? It should be the Cross. It should be the Cross that helps you get through each day. Today, I want to finish with Fanny Crosby’s great hymn. Remember she was blind, but I am positive that she saw more in her blindness than most people see with two good eyes. Just look at the third verse.
“Near the cross! O Lamb of God,
Bring its scenes before me;
Help me walk from day to day,
With its shadows o’er me.”
Life can sometimes be difficult. The body can take only so much before it is fatigued. How much can the soul handle? In the weariness of mind go to the Cross. In the aftermath of the storm and destruction is rampant, go to the Cross. When depression and despair come like a flood, go to the Cross.
It is the Cross that keeps us in this life and it will be because of the Cross that we can navigate that final river into the realms of glory. Oh, but you might say it is grace. But I will remind you that without the Cross there can be no grace. It is the victory brought through the Cross that we can hope in that blessed eternity. We can surely trust Christ because of His victory on the Cross.
“Near the cross I’ll watch and wait,
Hoping, trusting ever,
Till I reach the golden strand,
Just beyond the river.”
If rest is needed go to the Cross. Take heart, take hope, and stay focused on the Cross.
“In the cross, in the cross,
Be my glory ever;
Till my raptured soul shall find
Rest beyond the river.”