“Jesus said therefore to the twelve, ‘You do not want to go away also, do you?’ Simon Peter answered Him, ‘Lord, to whom shall we go? You have words of eternal life.'” – John 6:67-68
With silky white and black fur, he’s a pretty kitty. Linus–our cat. Surviving who knows what at the drainage ditch, he arrived in our home unexpectedly last fall. Successfully he’s claimed each of our hearts–my husband’s the most. Linus also recently survived a near-death experience. Eating string propelled him into surgery, from which he’s recovering nicely. Yet again today, he survived chewing through my husband’s computer cord. I’m now understanding why cats are credited with nine lives.
Survival. The word itself evokes thoughts of life’s unpleasantries that we just want to withstand. Boring meetings, hurtful confrontations, financial woes, debilitating sicknesses, challenging tasks, etc. Sometimes we even joke and wear t-shirts printed with, “I survived ________” (fill in the blank).
But as we know, life isn’t a joke. Many times I’ve wondered how people can endure tragedies and trials without Jesus. Truly I could never survive hardships–nor everyday life–without Him. Peter particularly expressed this truth so well. When faced with Jesus’ question about leaving Him, Peter immediately responded, “Lord, to whom shall we go?”
Indeed, to whom shall we go? There is no one besides Jesus. He remains our Savior, our Friend, our Shepherd, our Lord, our Example, and So. Much. More. Always faithful, His love never fails. There exists no one wiser, more compassionate, more patient, more gentle, or more loving. For His bride, the church, He meets every spiritual need and each heart’s cry. Why on earth would we seek anyone or anything else? His flawless character and life-giving words satisfy all we could ever long for.
What situation are you seeking to survive today? Remember! There is One who understands.
The Lord Jesus Christ desires to impart His words of life … if we will listen. Let’s stay with Him and benefit from His mercy and grace. He will never let us down. With Jesus, we can not only survive … but soar!
“Yet those who wait for the LORD Will gain new strength; They will mount up with wings like eagles …” – Isaiah 40:31
photo credit: SJ photography via photopin cc
