"Never Fully Assembled"

“Never Fully Assembled”

 

When Dave and Kristie were growing up the scariest words on a box containing a Christmas or birthday gift were “some assembly required.” Remember those Christmas eves when the boxes were opened after our kids went to bed and we saw strange pieces of plastic, metal, etc. and an even stranger set of instructions (hopefully in English—one project we took on had directions in Italian) for putting the mess together so it looked something like the picture on the carton? After numerous complaints about the intelligence (or lack of same) of the designers (but conveniently forgetting my own ineptitude in this area) and more time than a normal person would take the project was usually successfully completed in time for the event in question and (for a time, at least) was enjoyed by the recipient.

Recently as my mind went back to those not-so-thrilling days of yesteryear I remembered some words from King David: “I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.” (Psalm 139:14). God has uniquely assembled each of us to fulfill His purpose (“…I know the plans I have for you…plans to give you a hope and a future.”—Jeremiah 29:11) and to accomplish this He’s “…given us everything we need for life and godliness….” (2 Peter 1:3). How has He done this? Through His Word (“All Scripture…is useful…so that the {people of God} may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.”—2 Timothy 3:16-17) and the Holy Spirit’s empowering (…You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses….”—Acts 1:8). Sounds like we’re fully assembled, doesn’t it?

But are we ever? While all that’s necessary to fulfill God’s desires for us is available our progress is ongoing throughout our lives (…He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.”—Philippians 1:6). So we’re never fully assembled while we’re in this world—but we can look forward to “…when (Jesus) appears, we shall be like him….” (1 John 3:2).

So as we continue on life’s journey may we let God shape us for our work here and prepare us for worshipping Him forever.

Blessings!

Jim McMillan