There is a wonderful little balcony off the back second story of our house. Since we live on top of a hill there was a marvelous potential for an awesome view but when we moved in years ago the view was completely obstructed by trees in the back woods. So my son and I cut them down and the view was grand. This afternoon I heard the roaring sounds of an air show at our local airport. Running out onto the balcony I had a rude awakening. I couldn’t see anything. Little by little each year the trees grew back. All I can now see is a marvelous crop of maple leaves. It’s time to get out the chainsaw.
As I turned to go back inside I thought of the innocence of childhood and how clearly I could see Jesus. But little by little as the years and decades slipped away I sometimes find it more challenging to see Jesus. Things have grown up and gotten in the way. Doubts, questions difficult to answer, hypocritical Christians, personal hurts, disappointing leaders who forget that people are more important than organizations and my own failures to live up to my own standards all obstruct my vision. Perhaps this is what Paul meant when he wrote, “When I was a child I thought as a child, but now as a man I think like a man.” “I see through a glass darkly.” I Corinthians 13.
Despite the maple leaves I can hear the airplanes on the other side. Despite the things of adulthood I know Jesus is there. I can hear Him calling.
Written by Roger Bothwell on September 12, 2003
Spring of Life, 151 Old Farm Rd. Leominster, MA 01453