Worlds Apart

"I am the only one to blame for this
Somehow it all ends up the same
Soaring on the wings of selfish pride
I flew too high and like Icarus I collide
With a world I try so hard to leave behind
To rid myself of all but love
to give and die

To turn away and not become
Another nail to pierce the skin of one who loves
more deeply than the oceans,
more abundant than the tears
Of a world embracing every heartache

Can I be the one to sacrifice
Or grip the spear and watch the blood and water flow?"

While a seminary student, I first heard these lyrics from "Worlds Apart" (by Jars of Clay). This song really touched me, and it continues to do so today. Like the writers, I find it so easy to get complacent in my Christian walk. I think I've rid myself of all worldliness. Everything seems "o.k." in my mind, but, in reality, I'm worlds apart from God's best.

Even today, I found myself easily agitated by and judgmental of the actions of others. A sense of pride puffed me up to think I am superior to fellow children of God. Yet, I know that there is still much work left for God to do in my own heart. Please, oh Jesus, work through my own callousness and soften my heart to fully reflect Your own. Help me to be one who's willing to put aside self and seek your interests in the lives of others.