Disconnect

If you’ve ever tried to write computer software or build a website from scratch, you know the smallest detail out of place can render the entire project a failure. The devil is in the details in many areas of life, particularly where connections need to be strong, sealed, and uncompromising.

I recently heard the story of a race car driver who finished the last half of the race without the precious radio communication between he and his pit crew. Sure you can still race, but to not have anyone helping you through the course, or troubleshooting problems on the fly, can leave you on your own and frankly, dangerous to others.

Believing something in our minds and hearts, and taking action with our words and deeds are two worlds often oceans apart. Over time the circumstances of our lives and the everyday-ness of our days can leave us wondering if anything really lines up. “Do I believe what I say I believe? When’s the last time I’ve actually done something that matters?”

Disconnect.

Sometimes we wake up and realize things aren’t adding up for us. Something is off. There’s a disconnect in our hearts between faith and doubt, hope and disappointment. Lent, can be a season where we spend time examining the disconnect. Where, and why, am I failing to trust in the promise God has made to me in Jesus?

I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing. – John 15:5

The natural human response usually leads us to try and connect back in easy, practical steps. Instead, Jesus calls us to stop, and remember where we are. In his love.

As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Now remain in my love.
– John 15:9

When do we feel most connected to a loved one? A son, daughter, wife, or friend? When we know their love for us is secured. When their love for us is not in jeopardy. The disconnect between our hearts and our actions is rooted in remaining in the love of Christ.

This Lenten season, remember Christ. Remember his love. Remember the beautiful vine and branches that weave us together as God’s people. There we experience true connection, and true love.

Lent Reading IV:
John 15, 1 Peter 3:18-22