I love a good story— one that moves, inspires, or enlightens me. When struggle ends in triumph, justice is served, or Beauty's love turns Beast into a prince, that's a good story to me! I'm drawn in by tales of survival and recovery and beating the odds. There is power in a good story.
Lately I've been experiencing something rather frustrating. I’ve been watching movies that end in what seems like the middle of a scene and I'm left utterly confused. I have no idea what in the world I just watched. When things don't wrap up nicely, I'm dissatisfied at best. After I’ve invested into these stories—time and focus (and maybe some anxiety)—I want some sort of resolve! And when I don't get it, I'm left feeling a void— wishing the writer had made it clear that there was some version of a happily ever after. There is power in a finished story.
Have you ever felt a void in your own life's story? Like your journey has been random or unfinished? If you can relate, I wonder if you'll consider this question: Have you omitted or disowned parts of your story? Has shame or fear caused you to disassociate with pieces of you that you feel are unworthy of love and belonging? Is it simply easier to rewrite some chapters or rip them out of your book entirely? While it may be less painful to acknowledge what feels messy, what if I told you those parts were vital to your story's completion? While real life is much more mucky than a movie script or novel, I believe with Jesus, there IS always a happily ever after. Hebrews calls Him the Author and Finisher/Perfecter of our faith. That means He is responsible for weaving every character, plot twist, and setting into the world-changing story your life is meant to tell. His desire is to tie up every loose end and let the conclusion be one of victory, healing, and power! But you've got to be brave enough to own every part of it. There is power in a real story.
Don't run from the painful chapters— they will produce the most power. You don't have to hustle for your worthiness. Jesus already did that on the cross. Your story is a part of His. Embrace it. There is power in your story.
Written 2.3.22
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