Music Monday: “Temporary Home” by Carrie Underwood
With everything that has happened these past few weeks, it’s difficult to remain in good spirits. In the midst of our struggle to understand the tragedy of so many innocent lives lost, we must also address the unexpected passing of Charlie Kirk, who was not only the founder of “Turning Point” but also a dedicated Champion of the faith. The world’s future seems uncertain because of his assassination, leaving many people to wonder what the world is turning into.
However, as Christians, we have faith in God’s sovereignty, believing that He is ultimately in control of all events and has a specific reason for each one. Just as Joseph reminded his brothers after being reunited with them in Egypt. “… You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives.” (Genesis 15:20) Like Joseph, Charlie Kirk is a testament to this. Because of his death and strong faith, numerous people are finding their way back to God or rethinking their beliefs.
Over the past few weeks, our focus has been on exploring the different aspects of a life lived in faith. Hebrews 11 reminds us that a life of faith is the only thing that pleases God. This means:
1.) Faith in God is exclusive. We are born into sin (Ephesians 2)
2.) Faith in God is exhaustive. God attempts to transform all aspects of a Christian’s life.
3) Faith in God is reality. Jesus spoke of “truth” to describe reality. The truth is God is real, Jesus is God’s son, and eternal life is available to those who believe.
Do we truly live by that truth every day?
Similar to what was written earlier in Hebrews, the author is arguing for the superiority of Jesus’ path. Besides doing away with animal sacrifices, Jesus’ death enabled all believers to have their relationship with God restored. This should change our perspective in 3 distinct ways.
1) Let’s keep in mind that this world is not our true home; instead, we are yearning for eternity (Hebrews 11:16).
2) And we must remember Jesus presented a better plan through his sacrifice. Even with life’s challenges, our faith gives us hope for our everlasting future. (Hebrews 11:35). While they can harm the body, they are powerless against the soul. (Matthew 10:28)
3) And we forward to Heaven – a better plan (Hebrews 11:40). God has something better planned for us; nothing will be finished until everyone has the chance to learn about and have faith in Him.
We act as Christ’s ambassadors in this wounded and fractured world. Those around us can see what is possible when we believe in Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior, through the way we live our lives. Even if they are unaware of the specific changes, they notice a difference and start to question their own perspective.
“Temporary Home,” by Carrie Underwood offers a valuable perspective. It encourages us to prioritize things of lasting significance, like relationships and investing in people. We are merely travelers on Earth, destined for our true home in heaven (1 Chronicles 29:15).