It starts with me - 20 February 2024
By Benescke Janse van Rensburg
Um(Imi)bhalo weBhayibheli
2 kwabaseKorinte 4
In Westminster Abbey, in London, these words are inscribed on an Anglican bishop’s tombstone:
“When I was young and free, and my imagination knew no limits, I dreamed of changing the world. As I grew older and wiser, I realized the world would not change. I decided to shorten my sights somewhat and change only my country. However, it too seemed immovable. As I entered my twilight years, in one last desperate attempt, I sought to change only my family, those closest to me, but alas, they would have none of it.
“Now I lie here on my deathbed and realize, perhaps for the first time, that if only I had changed myself first, then by example, I may have influenced my family. With their encouragement and support, I may have bettered my country, and who knows, I may have changed the world.”
In 2 Corinthians 4:16-18a, we read: “So we do not lose heart. Though our outer self is wasting away, our inner self is being renewed day by day. For this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison, as we look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen.”
God wants to renew us daily – our thoughts, our hopes, the way we look at life and the current season we find ourselves in. Instead of trying to change everything and everyone around us, let’s start with ourselves while keeping our eyes on him – the invisible, imperishable One who exists forever. God bless.
Prayer: Father God, help me to renew my mind daily so that I can keep my eyes on you in every season. Guide me through (name your challenge). I ask this in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen
