I was out with my family at a local retail store recently. I enjoy looking through the art at these stores every now and then. You never really know what you might find, and if it can steal my attention away from being in a shopping establishment, I'm all for it.
Well, the other day, I found the sign in the picture posted above. I always like reading those black and white signs for whatever reason. When I saw this one, I had to read it twice to make sure I was reading it correctly.
Let me first say, doesn't that sound absolutely horrible?!? "No one to lean on!" "No one to rely on!"
But beyond that, I could not help but think how sad it is that much of our world thinks this way. In a world of people who are searching for happiness, or completion, or identity, many put their trust in the false gospel of this world that says, I am the center. I am responsible. I am in control. The sinful nature, alive in all of us, that fights to be the god of our world is perfectly highlighted on this sign; And many have adopted such a statement as their mantra, using it as inspiration in offices, and homes, and bedrooms...A constant reminder that My life is my own, and I am in control.
2 Corinthians 4:4 says, "the god of this world has blinded the mind of unbelievers to keep them from seeing the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God."
The Gospel of Jesus Christ could not be more contrary to the sign I found at the store. The Gospel is the good news that Jesus Christ came and died an innocent death in our sinful place. The Gospel not only demands, but made a way for man to no longer seek their identity in this world or themselves, but for once be able to proclaim, My life is not my own! The Gospel places my identity in Christ Jesus, so whether good or bad, prosperity or suffering, my trust and example is in Jesus who for the joy set before Him endured the cross.
So, if I could, I'd burn all of those signs that I could find. I can't do that, but I will re-write it below. Sadly, our world is full of people living out the very words on that sign. They need Jesus. And they need God's people to take it to them.
The best day of your life is the one on which you decide your life is not your own. Your apologies, forgiven, all your sins washed white as snow. You have Christ to lean on, rely on, and trust. This gift is free. It is an amazing journey, and he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion.