In the world of action sports, more specifically skateboarding, this evaluation remains true. Battling tricks for hours, to only land it, throw it on social media, then to have it forgotten in about a week… We are creatures that are never satisfied by worldly means. Running off to whatever we think may complete us, even momentarily.
It’s scary to think that we can run so far and so long after something that in the end, is absolutely empty. No amount of recognition, comfortability, pleasure, or other worldly offer will complete the longings inside our fleshly hearts.
So, are we hopeless? By no means!
Real satisfaction exists and is offered. When Jesus met the Samaritan woman, He offered her a “water” that will cause eternal fulfillment. In awe and worship, she desired this water and received it at that moment. She “tasted” and saw that the Lord is like no other. (Psalm 34:8, John 4:1-15)
Even in our wandering, for the Christian, God always calls us back. God is the Good Shepherd who brings his flock back into the fold, despite their selfish motives and entanglements. (Isaiah 40:11) What is dire, is to realize when and how you are straying. As "sheep" we must trust in who our Shepherd is. Likewise, we must believe that we actually and truly belong to His collective flock.
It's good to contemplate and ask ourselves what typically leads us to stray from God. I personally reflect upon this truth. Mostly, to continue to reevaluate how I engage with skateboarding, relationships, goals, and so on. To enjoy, participate, and put effort into them, however, to not let this list dictate my identity. Let us plant our hearts and souls in Christ, every single day. Being joyful and trusting sheep alongside our caring and steady Shepherd. How do you believe you belong to God, everyday?
“He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, that we might die to sin and live to righteousness. By his wounds you have been healed. For you were straying like sheep, but have now returned to the Shepherd and Overseer of your souls.” 1 Peter 2:24-25
