What do you love doing? What brings you joy? What revitalises you?
For me, there are a number of things that float my boat. Actually, boats are a passion of mine. One day I’d really love to own one that I can escape to for weekends on the water. That feels like a pipe dream for now though. Other passions that revitalise me are playing tennis and following Arsenal, well sometimes anyway!
Life can be so full of busy obligations that our passions, the things we love doing the most are the things that get squeezed out. I know many people who selflessly spend little time on what brings them most joy to ensure that obligations and other people’s expectations are fulfilled. In the long term this can be a cul-de-sac, a dead end of not thriving or flourishing and certainly not living life to the full.
God wants us to find fulfilment. In the Bible, in the book of John, Jesus explains that His main purpose of coming is to bring life. He says, “I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” The ‘they’ that He talks about is you and me. Jesus wants us to have fullness of life. Sounds great!
The fullness of life that Jesus speaks of here isn’t the type that provides me with a 100ft super-yacht, winning a tennis match or seeing Arsenal win the league. After a moment of disappointment I quickly get over this when I realise that what’s on offer is actually something far more exciting and fulfilling. The life He is talking about is life in Him. He explains that He is “the way and the truth and the life” (John 14:6). The way to greatest contentment, fulfilment and joy is to follow Him. This is what is called discipleship.
Take time to follow your passions and do the things you love. It’s so vital for your wellbeing that you do so. At the same time know that even greater fulfilment is found in Jesus and going deeper with Him. This is what will make your joy complete (John 15:11) not the trappings of the world.
If you are ‘curious’ about the life that Jesus offers and would like to know more, we have just started an Alpha Course at St Peter’s that you may like to attend. Click here Alpha for details.