Stumbling After Jesus

Recently, a church member asked me about a phrase I frequently used that they had always found helpful. They told me they hadn't heard me say it in some time and wondered whether that was intentional.  

The phrase in question was "stumbling after Jesus," which I have employed for years to describe my own faith journey.  

I couldn't remember the last time I had used that phrase, but assured them I still held it close to my heart.  The fact that I hadn't used it in a while in sermons or devotionals didn't mean I'd left it behind, but I did need to revisit it, especially now.  

The fact is, I am stumbling after Jesus, and I always have.  I am far from perfect, and I've said and done many things in my life that I'm not proud of in the least.  And so, I want to rededicate myself to the premise that simple phrase upholds.  

I also think that the end of Lent is a perfect time to do just that. 

As we come to the end of the sacred season of Lent, we are invited to reflect deeply on our motivations, struggles, and the complexities of our faith. It's been a long season, and try as we might, most of us probably haven't been perfect.  

This period of introspection poignantly reminds us that no matter how earnestly we strive to lead holy lives, we often stumble into brokenness. But there is good news: God loves us so profoundly and mercifully that He accepts us just as we are.

Richard Foster reflects on this reality when he states: 

"The truth of the matter is, we all come to [God] with a tangled mass of motives altruistic and selfish, merciful and hateful, loving and bitter. Frankly, this side of eternity we will never unravel the good from the bad, the pure from the impure. God is big enough to receive us with all our mixture." 

This quote illustrates the complexity of our humanity. We are a mixture of intentions and emotions, and our relationship with God does not require us to figure everything out or be perfect. Instead, it invites us to come as we are, acknowledging our imperfections.

In our quest to follow Jesus, it is easy to become overwhelmed by the feeling that we must "get it right." Yet, Scripture reassures us that God understands our struggles and meets us in our confusion. 

In Romans 5:8, we are reminded, "But God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us." This powerful statement emphasizes that God’s love is not contingent upon our cleanliness or righteousness. Instead, it encompasses our entire being, our mess, and our brokenness. 

In a world that often values perfection and success, the message of God's acceptance is revolutionary. We do not have to constantly strive to present a flawless version of ourselves to God. 

God desires honesty and vulnerability, not a polished façade. Lent serves as an opportunity to lay bare our tangled lives before God, embracing our shortcomings while simultaneously recognizing God's unwavering grace.

Instead of fixating on getting every detail right, let us focus on nurturing our relationship with God. Ask yourself, "How can I seek God with openness and a genuine heart?" We find freedom when we lean into our desire to know God rather than striving for unattainable perfection. 

The journey is not about flawless conduct but about being authentic in our pursuit of holiness while resting in God's unending love and mercy.

As you continue your Lenten practice, I encourage you to worry less about perfection in your following Jesus. 

Embrace the beautiful truth that God is big enough to receive you with all your mixture. Lean into your relationship with God, knowing that your desire to seek God is the most crucial step. 

Let God's love transform your heart and guide you on this journey, as you walk humbly, authentically, and joyfully in God's presence.

And may the grace and peace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with us all, now and forever. Amen.