I didn’t watch the 2000s TV comedy Malcom In The Middle, but I knew about the show’s star, Frankie Muniz, and a recent web article on his spiritual life grabbed my attention.
In 2020 Muniz was driving across the United States and things were definitely not going well. The article, in Relevant magazine, doesn’t identify the problem(s), but it does make it clear that Muniz was deeply distressed. Seeking solace in music, Muniz found only one radio station in his remote location and it was playing music about Jesus of Nazareth, who many people believe is the Son of God.
Two songs hit him right where he was at emotionally. “It was the perfect moment,” he said. “I haven’t turned off that radio station since (it’s also available on the Internet). I started going to church and really being involved in my faith. It’s definitely become a big part of my life because of that trip.”
Muniz spoke about how following Jesus gives him a sense of peace. “Even though I had a lot of good in my life, I felt like I was still in a very anxious place,” he said. “My faith puts me in the right frame of mind.”
Let’s shift gears for a moment to another interview, this one involving Northern Irish mathematician and bioethicist John Lennox. Earlier this year, the Oxford-educated author and speaker spent an hour with Steven Bartlett, covering a wide-range of subjects.
I zeroed in on a few moments near the end when Bartlett (who doesn’t follow Jesus) told Lennox “you have a peace and contentment that I rarely see in people I interview, but I often see it in Christians I’ve interviewed.”
“That peace is very important to me,” Lennox responded. “Also, when I look at you, I see someone of infinite value made in the image of God, so what I say to you or think about you is hugely important to me.”
Do you see the common denominator between these Jesus followers and why I’ve linked them in this blog? Both have an anchor in something – or, more importantly, Someone – that holds them steady in the midst of life’s many challenges.
They’re able to avoid the despair that so often grips us when personal, financial or relational crises sweep through our lives. Jesus spoke to his followers about this, noting “I have told you these things that in me you may have peace. In the world you have trouble; but cheer up! I have overcome the world.”
You may have peace right now, but what about a month from now? What if you lose your job or a loved one gets sick or a family struggle starts spinning out of control?
Given these uncertainties, I suggest checking out Jesus – his remarkable life and teachings, his death (that makes up for ALL the wrongs committed by His followers) and triumphant resurrection. Prepare yourself for what’s inevitably coming!
You’re a spiritual person – otherwise you wouldn’t be reading this blog – so I’m confident you’ll realize this is worth your time and attention. In fact, it could change your life for the better – and for all eternity.
Frank's Cottage 