DOES JESUS KNOW?

For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have One who has been tempted in every way—yet was without sin. Hebrews 4:15 NIV

This morning I carried food from the kitchen to the dining room, and had to turn around and carry it back—again. Both hands full of breakfast, I couldn’t set a plate down to clear a space on the table. As hard as he tries, my husband can’t seem to make much headway with his stacks—but couldn’t he at least leave clear the places on the dining table that I need for our plates?

Clutter is a serious problem for me. Clutter robs me of focus. Ten years of it have robbed me of the will even to deal with my own clutter. Does Jesus understand this, too?

Grieving parents have told me He cannot understand what it is to lose a child—but God the Creator lost his first son, Adam, and God the Father sent His only begotten Son to die for us. Paralytics have told me that even Jesus can’t possibly understand what it’s like for them. But on the cross, He was little more able to move than they are. His back, rubbing against rough wood, was as open as the worst bedsore. Elderly men and women have told me that He can’t possibly understand what it’s like to outlive your strength and vitality. But, was He not at the end of His strength when He fell beneath the cross?

I’ve got it! What about trying to live a productive life while overwhelmed with clutter? Surely He, omnipotent God of order, can straighten out any amount of CHAOS* with a word or a wave of His hand.

What about the clutter in the human heart, the human mind? How frustrating it must be for Him to watch us struggle with what none of us can do, when He’s ready to use His endless power for our benefit. But He chooses to live with it. He will not force His way into any heart. Softly knocking, He waits for an invitation.

Then when that invitation comes, stand back! Watch while He rolls up His mighty sleeves and makes the dust fly.

And my own heart, His home? Some heart clutter, I hope no serious competition to Him. But what about the clutter in my mind? I need His hand, for I cannot clear it alone.

Come, Lord Jesus, and still this storm of busyness in me. Prepare Your home in me, and sweep my heart clean. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

 

*CHAOS: Can’t Have Anyone Over Syndrome