Groaning lately?

For we know that the whole creation groans and labors with birth pangs together until now. Not only that, but we also who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, even we ourselves groan within ourselves, eagerly waiting for the adoption, the redemption of our body. For we were saved in this hope, but hope that is seen is not hope; for why does one still hope for what he sees? But if we hope for what we do not see, we eagerly wait for it with perseverance. Likewise the Spirit also helps in our weaknesses. For we do not know what we should pray for as we ought, but the Spirit Himself makes intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. Now He who searches the hearts knows what the mind of the Spirit is, because He makes intercession for the saints according to the will of God. And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.(Romans 8:22-28)

Have you heard a whole lot of grumbling and groaning lately?  It's ok to groan, if it for the right reason! Oh, we groan about politics, about family and about finances. Kids groan about parents, their school work, their teachers, and their friends and relationships. Paul writes here that even nature groans . . . but for the right reason . . . in hope for the coming Savior!

Rather than groan about things of this world, which we know is getting worse and worse, why not groan with the Spirit as we read above? Groan for the things of God . . . run after His will for us and others. As we agree with God and seek His will, we will not be as concerned for the things which are passing away!

Matthew 24 reminds us that this world is winding down. . . .that things are getting worse. But there is Good News: it gets better . . . but after this world is gone! To those of us who love the Lord and are called, we can look forward with a hope and a purpose!

Jesus would say, "One, two three . . . all eyes on me!"