DISAPPOINTMENT IS A DESTRUCTIVE TRAP

It’s easy to get caught in the “If…then” trap; if I do this, then that will happen.  For some things that might be true but not for others, especially when the others involve people.  People are fickle.  Disappointment is sure to follow if I use the “if…then formula in my relationships with them.  Jesus knew that; he entrusted himself to no one, even the ones he loved the most.  He knew human nature very well.

When Jesus yielded himself to the authorities and was crucified, I am sure that his disciples were disappointed in him.  This was not what they expected to happen.  They gave up everything to follow him and they certainly expected more than the ending he gave them.  In their heart of hearts I suspect that they expected a good position, power, and authority in this world.  They would be looked up to by others, and feel special. 

I can easily identify with what these friends of Jesus were feeling; I have felt that “if then” expectation for a lot of my years on the Christian path.  It’s human.  I have learned, after many disappointments, that “if then” expectations are faulty and I try hard not to fall into the trap.  Flesh is needy, weak, wanting, and is never satisfied.

          “All flesh is grass, and all its beauty is like the flower of the field.

           The grass withers, the flower fades” (Isaiah 40:6,7).

Only that of the Spirit will last forever.  When I remember that in my relationships with others and in my dealings with life I will be more at peace rather than disappointed and disillusioned.

Jesus had every right to be disappointed in his disciples; but he wasn’t.  He looked beyond the disappointment to how much he loved them and he responded in love and patience towards them.  He has done that with me as well; over and over again.  It is how I must be with others.

          “I dare not trust the sweetest frame, but only lean on Jesus name.

           On Christ the solid rock I stand, all other ground is sinking sand.”