“There’s something missing from my life. Sure, I have a nice wife, a career and a house; I guess I’m talking about that spiritual something to give it all meaning and enable me to be at peace with myself and the world.”
This was a monologue from Norm, the barfly played so expertly by actor George Wendt on the dearly loved American comedy Cheers. I happened to see it while skimming videos on Facebook and it stopped me in my tracks.
While the “speech” ended with a silly joke that was typical of the show, I saved the video because I believe if many of us gave it any consideration, what Norm said would accurately describe our lives.
It was certainly the case for me. In 2004, I had:
- A career in print journalism that was going nicely
- Experience with several satisfying romantic relationships
- A home in surburbia
To any outsider, I had all that things that would make me a success. But something was missing.
So, at a certain point, I came to recognize that my life accomplishments didn’t mean much and they would disappear the moment my soul left my body. Maybe the fact that you’re reading this means you’re at, or near, this point in your life.
So here’s what I did: Because of attending church services as a child, I had a vague idea about Jesus of Nazareth, who many people believe is the Son of God. So, with an open mind, I started connecting with Jesus followers who were capable of having spiritual discussions with non-believers.
Over time, I came to understand two vital things: who Jesus is and who I am. Some folks think Jesus was just a cool guy with some great ideas worth following. Others believe He was nothing more than a made-up character.
If you give any credibility to the primary-source accounts of His physical life on earth, then you’ll know that Jesus didn’t allow us the option of figuring He was just a great thinker and good person. You either have to believe He is who He said He is (the Son of God who came to came to live, die and return to life for our benefit) or a lunatic with a god complex.
As for being a fictional character, who would do this and carry it through? And why? To get money, sex and power? Really?
As for us, most people in the world today figure they’re good and, if there’s any kind of creator and any kind of Heaven, then we’re good enough to get in on our own merits.
But that’s opposite to what Jesus said. He told anyone willing to listen that “you must be perfect, just as your Father in Heaven is perfect.” Once I understood that, I realized that being “good” was absolutely NOT good enough. I had to trust and follow Jesus, who claimed to be “the way, the truth and the life.”
Once I finally did that, my career changed (to telling others about Jesus), the women I dated changed (I married a Jesus follower) and I came to understand that the things this world values are meaningless in the grand scheme of things. My meaning and JOY comes from following Jesus and telling people like you about Him.
Are you missing something in your life? Then look into Jesus. I think He’s what you need. Agree? Disagree? Post your thoughts below and let’s have a conversation.
Frank's Cottage 