When The Perishable Puts On The Imperishable

"I declare to you, brothers and sisters, that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God, nor does the perishable inherit the imperishable." (15:50 NIV).

I can't escape the irony of this moment and my daily read through scripture. After a hard night, I read I Cor. 15, verses I've read over numerous graves during my lifetime in pastoral roles.

Yet, this imperishable soul seems now screaming for the day of its release, though another day in this same state seems required of my spirit. Apparently, there's still work to do, not just for the sake of others, but as well within my own being!

Otherwise, the prayers offered would have delivered me with less suffering. I'm still anticipating a strong story that adds value to others. Life tells me, God wastes no pain!

Truly, death has been swallowed up in victory but her sting is still strong, and more evident with each passing year.

In times like these, life moments race through my mind of days when this perishable was much stronger, defiant of death's sting, unrelenting in battle. The challenge, whether spiritual or even requiring some material gain, victories came more easily than now.

Failure, even spiritual weakness, only refueled my inner man with an assurance of some deeper wisdom needed for the next assignment.

This season seems different, yet I know holds similar promise, it's full unpacking though will require a different strategy. Perhaps now pulling from future reserves, more dependent upon the hope of a day when the imperishable becomes a total reality. These tired bones, no longer my baggage.

Free at last!

Good stuff from Brother Paul.

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