First Class
I am traveling on an airplane right now and the Holy Spirit is talking to me, so I am just going to write down what He has to say. I am in economy class in the row immediately following the last row of First Class passengers. So I have complete view of all the hustle and bustle happening for those fliers enjoying the luxury of the First Class seating. Unfortunately I get none of the benefits though. I wish I could, but I cannot experience that world of First Class on this flight because I did not pay the price for it.
The Flight attendants appear to be very helpful, attentive and gracious to the passengers up there. As they walk back to the last row delivering the next round of refreshments at no additional charge and the delectables that far out pass the bag of pretzels I just got, I imagine how good it would be to stretch out my legs, float back in that broad chair and nap. Instead, I am playing the role of contortionist in Economy, snacking on a thimble of pretzels and trying to own just enough of the armrest to put that fleshy part of my elbow (can never remember its name) on it. Our flight attendants are very kind and courteous but I am sure that they do not have the experience of that fine staff up in First Class.
Don’t misunderstand my intentions please. I am not grumbling, well maybe a little, but I definitely understand that I did not pay to go First Class so I have no right to it. I am getting that for which I paid. I am enjoying the benefits of air travel at an economical price. But those people in First Class, they are getting the royal treatment. I am so close too. That may make it even more frustrating. I am right there. I can see it and hear it all, but I am unable to enjoy it. Now I see what I missed, and frankly I am thinking that maybe I could do without the dollars saved.
You know, the Kingdom of God may be a little like a flight on an airplane. The passengers all enter the plane through the same door. Everyone is on the plane but some have a different experience than others. The experience is different based on the price paid. Now I am not talking about works or some special place for certain people based on their status. What I am referring to is relationship. The difference in experience within the Christian walk is based on one’s relationship with God. How we honor Him in our lives. How we desire Him.
Why live this Christian life with no intention of experiencing all that God has for you? Why walk in the knowledge of Christ with none of His power in your life? Why take the flight, walk through The Door, only to choose an economy experience? It is not a matter of cost because all has been paid in full by Him who granted you entrance. It is not a matter of availability, as all things in the Kingdom of God are available to all God’s children. It is not exclusive or proprietary. It is not a matter of ability or looks or even longevity in the Kingdom.
It is simply a matter of choice - your choice. God is available. As a loving Father, He makes himself available to His children. His power and His presence are available. He even sent His only Son that you may be saved AND have a more abundant life! But you must choose which you will have. Are you looking for an economy experience with God or will it be one filled with all that He has availed you as His child? Go First Class!