Restorer of Life

I like home improvement shows. Seeing an old house been brought back to life is amazing. The craftsmanship and time spent is a testimony to the dedication of workers and owners alike. When something is restored it is "brought back" to its old glory. Restoration is a difficult process for it seeks to preserve the core, the heart, of something while taking away layers of "junk." It takes careful attention to detail and it takes time.

In the scripture for this Sunday (Ruth 3:1-5; 4:13-17), God is called the "restorer of life." (v. 4:15) God takes Naomi's situation, dire situation, and makes into something wonderful into a great work of grace. Through her wisdom both she and Ruth are restored to fullness. If it wasn't for a willing stranger we would not have this story. God takes the "junk" of life and makes us, restores us, back to God's intention. This is good news!

Restoration is not an easy process. Along the way there will be chaos and a bigger mess. We will wonder whether the process will be worth it. Then, little by little, the pieces are put back and we begin to see a hint of what's to come. Setbacks will come, deadlines will be extended. Budgets will be altered. In the middle of it all God will be there guiding us, holding our hand, and helping us through. What's to come will take our breath away.

This Sunday we will gather and reflect on God's goodness to us. Although the focus might seem about money is really not about money at all. It's really about life. Are we going to let God "restore us" or not. If we say yes then we have to let God do the work. We have to let go of everything. Stewardship is about letting go and about letting God restore our priorities for all of life.

I look forward to seeing you Sunday. Till then . . .

Peace, Juan