What a Wonderful Life

I seem to be on a "life" kick lately--it's what I talk about a lot in this blog over the last number of days.  Maybe there is someone out there who is asking questions about life, wondering what's the point, or why life is so difficult?  If so, then I hope that God takes these words and uses them to bring hope and strength to you today.

One of my favorite bands is Altar Bridge--a secular group that plays powerfully and, though not speaking messages that are Christian, they clearly sing about songs that are about searching.  I like honest questions--even if they are hard ones.

In their latest album they perform a song called Wonderful Life, and in it you find this line, "What a wonderful life for as long as you've been by my side.  And I want you to know I love you so. . .What a wonderful life my friend."

They are singing this to a lost loved one, someone who had immense meaning in their life but is now gone.  They are remembering the great moments they shared together, and just how deeply impacted they were when they were together.  It made life wonderful.

Whenever I hear this song I think about Jesus.  I wonder what life would be like without him in it?  How would I feel about the "daily grind"?  Or, how would I approach relationships without him helping me understand what relationships are all about?  I may often think that life is hard, but if I'm honest, wouldn't it be so much harder without him?  I might not want to say that life is wonderful as that seems to conjure images of perpetual smiles, and that is not what I experience.  But if I define life with Jesus as meaningful, where deep questions find good homes and my heart and mind are able to rest--then isn't that worth a lot?

I guess it's true, then, to say that life with Jesus is wonderful because he has shown me such meaning in a world that so often seems barren and grey.  At a time of year when the leaves are falling and the grass is dying maybe it's a good reminder to know that Jesus is walking with those he calls his children, and by his Spirit he is bringing about life all the time. 

Jesus, help us to hear, see, feel and enjoy You.  Help us to receive You--because You are nothing but good.  And, what can I say. . .good is good.

BT