Put On The New

and that you put on the new man which was created according to God, in true righteousness and holiness. Ephesians 4:24

The old person of the flesh that clings to us so tightly at this time may object to our learning of the spirit of the new human that Jesus has placed within us along with His Spirit. However, what has changed? Do we show this righteousness and holiness as Paul said? One analogy that came to me this morning is that dog. No, not the family pet or the friendly one next door, but that dog over there. You know the one that is kept on a short chain and it annoys him all day long. Frustration is the poor thing's daily existence. He is totally dependent upon his owner for food and water because there is nothing he can reach and nowhere he can run. Leave aside the deplorable owner for a bit and consider his behavior. Growling, whining, gnashing his teeth at all who approach. You just know that if he ever got off that chain it would be a bloodbath and you hope to not be a part of it. And then it happens... But what a delight the doggy is off of that chain! Running from person to person, greeting each one with tail wagging and happy kisses. Who is this angelic copy of caninus horribilis? Why do we find it so difficult to emulate the renewed pooch?

My guess is that the chain on the old human did not entirely fall off just yet, and occasionally it catches on the things of this earth and gives us a good yank by way of reminder. Our Lord may be in His eternal wisdom removing the links of our chain one at a time so that we do not get too happy too soon. There are temptations and powers in this world that we must not greet joyously as a long lost friend. The finish of His work is sure and certain though!

Rejoice, His freedom is near!

Bucky