PrintThe Ultimate Affirmation (1)
"Well done, good and faithful servant!" (Matthew 25/21) I can't recall a time when those words of commendation from the Lord God have been applied in any way except to the final accounting at the end of one's earthly life.
I certainly want to hear those words from my Lord when I stand before Him at the close of my earthly life. But I would like to think that I could hear those words at the close of each day, not just once at the end of this life.
What a great way to conclude each day! Just to reflect on the decisions and activities of the day and, while truthfully acknowledging the sins and shortcomings of that day, to know the Lord's forgiveness and His "well done, Mike" on what remains. Surely the sense of peace that would pervade my life as I "lay me down to sleep" would be the ultimate sleeping pill!!
More than that; why could I not hear those words not just once at the close of the day but numerous times each day as I make good and Godly decisions along life's journey? If Jesus walks with me each and every moment (and He does) and if He knows all my thoughts, motives, words and actions (and He does), why shouldn't I expect to hear His "well done" now as well as in the final summation of all things?
Maybe the above is a commentary on my need of affirmation. Mum used to remind me of this need of affirmation when I was a small child. Apparently I used to often ask her the question, "Am I being a good boy, Mum?" Perhaps that's one reason why my Lord's "Well done, Mike" is so important to me.
Jesus is the great 'Affirmer'. He doesn't flatter me. He affirms me.
I need to explore that very important distinction in my next log entry.
