Out of the Past

It is truly interesting to look at how much things past affect and shape who we are in the present. Our histories and the histories of those close to us are a major force that help to mold us into what are are and what we are becoming. Decisions I've made and things that have occured to me years and years ago (as early as elementary school) are things that I still vividly remember and either cherish or cringe at, but all of those things, by virtue of the fact that I remember them, have affected who I am now.

Christianity teaches that God has set about reversing the curse that sin has brought on humanity and is redeeming all things to Himself. However, the past is done and cannot be redeemed. It can be forgiven, and it can be dealt with, but it cannot be redeemed or changed. Imagine how much of a luxury it would be to even redo your most recent 13 seconds--"long enough to correct a mistake". But what's done is done. That's why it's so important to be careful to make your actions Christlike now, because (among other reasons) you will regret them later.

I've done a lot of stupid things, ranging from years and years ago (many of which I still remember) to earlier today. I've been through a lot. I've been glad to be alive and I've been very deeply hurt, and I know how both feel. And I also know that many of the things that seemed important years ago still seem important now...because they are. But when I look at my checkered (at best) past, I remind myself that I do have a chance to make my future a better one, because God is redeeming and working in me.

Luke