Have you ever flown on a small plane? You know the kind that resembles a Volkswagen bug with wings? Talk about faith in action ...this is what it’s all about.
Before you’re off the ground, you get to watch the pilot conduct a private plane safety check. (If the plane’s been sitting and it’s the first flight of the day, and the check isn’t done–get off!)
But what is the pilot looking for anyway? Too many to completely list, but loose or popped rivets, damage or signs of wear on any of the wings or airplane skins are a few concerns. I personally would like to see him kick a tire or two and give that ol’ propeller a spin as well. That way I’ll know that they are secure and aren’t going to fall off midflight.
Walking in faith is one thing ...but flying in faith is a whole different deal. I trust the Lord, but the flesh in me also needs to trust the pilot and the plane ...it’s carrying some cargo that I’m rather attached to me!
But what about us? Do we examine our skins before heading out? I know we have a mirror hung at the front door for last minute hair and teeth checks, but is that sufficient?
Examine yourselves, to see whether you are in the faith. Test yourselves. Or do you not realize this about yourselves, that Jesus Christ is in you?—unless indeed you fail to meet the test—(2 Corinthians 13:5, ESV).
We need to spend time daily examining our hearts. Are we in proper shape to be carrying the gospel message to those in need? Would others find evidence of Jesus Christ in us? Would we pass the internal visual inspection test?
Lord, forgive us for being negligent in our spiritual care and upkeep. Please show us where we have let any laziness or false teaching compromise our relationship with you, Amen.
