by Desiree Bustamante

Though we are physically wasting away, we are still growing strong in Christ.

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“Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.”
2 Corinthians 4:16-18 New International Version

To me, old dilapidated and decaying cabins in a backdrop of turning leaves in the fall is the truest example of how our lives waste away with each passing season. It doesn’t matter how old you are, the moment we are born we begin the process of decay in some form because we live in a world of sin. But this picture also reminds me that God created us to be renewed every day—not physically, but in our minds and souls.

If we follow Him, though physical death may be at work within us, the life of Jesus is also within us, and we are continually renewed through His word, the Holy Spirit’s presence and Christ’s love. Any troubles we have in this world weigh less on our hearts and minds as we look to our Lord, focusing on the eternal life we have in Him. This world, like autumn leaves and rotting wood cabins are temporary. We have a place built for us in heaven that will last for all eternity, to live with the glory of God that outweighs all the problems in this world.

So do not lose heart! Though weariness is part of life, we are all growing more resilient, wiser, and joyful as we lean on the Lord for what is unseen, our total transformation leading to everlasting life with Him.

Copyright Holy Cross Lutheran Church, Colorado Springs, Colorado