Can you identify some differences between these two creatures? One is a bird, one is an insect. One is big, one is small. One is a statue, the other is REAL!
The pigeon is fake. It is plastic (I think) and does not move, eat, sing or fly. It just sits where it is positioned and looks pretty (until it fades in the sunlight). The hummingbird moth is real. It flies and eats and reproduces and charms those who watch it dance from one blossom to the next.
The other evening, Wayne and I noticed some fake pigeons in a tree. They were so well done that we had to pass by 3 times to be sure they were imposters. That same evening, we saw hummingbird moths enjoying some flowers near our home. We stood and watched and smiled at the wondrous diversity and amazing creatures of God’s world.
No matter how closely a statue may resemble the real thing, it is not real. So I have been considering the differences between real faith and not so real faith.
Real faith changes us. We become kinder, more willing to offer grace and forgiveness and second chances. Real faith makes us certain of our forgiveness, and even more certain that we do not deserve it. Real faith inspires generosity of our hearts, which manifests in giving of our time, talents, and treasures. Real faith binds us together in love for neighbors and the desire to do our part to make the Kingdom of God tangible in the world today. Real faith binds Christians together. Real faith helps us to draw closer to God Real faith carries us to heaven.
Counterfeit faith just looks pretty. It won’t do a thing for you.
Today, I invite you to consider your faith. Do you really believe and know with all of your heart that you are a sinner in need of God’s grace? Do you know that you can never earn God’s forgiveness, but that it is given freely, simply because God loves you? Do you know this so deeply in your bones and heart and life that you must live it out in ways that look like something Jesus would do? That’s real faith.
Faithfully,
Pastor Scarlett