Day 16 – The Passion of the Cross

“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied.” (Matthew 5:6)

“…for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content.  I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound.  In every and any circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need.  I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.” (Philippians 4:11-13)

To experience a contentment in life…a satisfaction, is something that we all long for.  We are constantly searching to find a peace that will satisfy our deepest longings.  Most cannot define exactly what it is we are looking for but all acknowledge the search.  What can I find or discover or buy or do that will quench this deep thirst in my soul?  Through the ages men and women have found that this is not achieved by stockpiling worldly goods.  It is not achieved by acquiring honors and awards for our accomplishments.  It cannot be found in religious rites and rituals.  It is not even achieved in our earthly relationships that too often disappoint.  In this beatitude, Jesus challenges us by saying…”maybe the problem is in knowing what you hunger and thirst for”.  Those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, He says, “shall be satisfied”.

Over the last few days we have been reflecting on what we are passionate about.  What is at the center of who we are?  What is the driving force that is behind all that we say and do?  For many of us, the problem begins because we have never settled on one main thing.  Our lives are scattered, and therefore, unfocused and stressful.  Our challenge is to simplify our lives by making a decision to follow God and Him alone.  To seek Him first in all we do.  It is only in a relationship with our God that we can find peace within ourselves.  Maybe there are some of you who have discovered that your one passion is not this relationship and you have been left hungry and thirsty.  Jesus calls to you to “seek first His kingdom” and find peace.

But, we also know that life can be hard.  Difficulties and suffering are part of the reality of our lives in this world.  The Scripture tells us that a single-minded faith in God gives us a peace and contentment that fills us in the good times and the bad times.  Paul discovered this truth in his personal journey and even referred to it as the “secret” to contentment in all circumstances.  Essentially, Paul is saying, “I can be at peace in any situation as long as I am with Jesus.”  Paul found that simplifying life begins from the inside out.  It starts with a hunger and thirst for righteousness that is only satisfied in a relationship with Christ Jesus.  Once that is settled, according to Jesus, we shall be “satisfied”.

Are you content?  Does your satisfaction in life depend on your circumstances?  I challenge you today to anchor your life to the Rock that will not be moved.