Once, a newly appointed pastor was so stressed and busy with the responsibilities that he could not sleep at night. When the pastor-in-charge met with him, the new pastor reported on his work and also brought up his sleeping problem. The pastor-in-charge said that when he was first appointed, he also could not sleep. Then one night in a dream, an angel called out to him, saying, “No one is indispensable.” From that day onwards, he could sleep peacefully every night.
The value system of those who believe in God is very different from those who do not believe in God. This world tells us that we need to fight for our rights, climb the social ladder, demand justice and equality. People prioritize their work and taking care of their own needs and feelings. The kingdom of this world tells us to grasp and hold on tight, in contrast with the kingdom of God which tells us to give up, to let go, to prioritize the work of the kingdom, and to treat others with grace and mercy.
Jesus taught, “For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me will find it. What good will it be for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul? Or what can anyone give in exchange for their soul?” (Mat 16:25-26) On the surface, this seems hard to swallow. Wouldn’t living like this be a disadvantage? Is this a pessimistic view of the world? Is this giving up the fight? I think not. Instead it is dealing with temporary matters of the world through the lens of eternity. With the right perspective to look at the world, we can know what is really worth fighting for, or what can be given up. In this way, we can live fearlessly in the world, and have no regrets or tears in the future eternal kingdom.
Back to the story of the newly appointed pastor. When he learned not to place too much importance on himself, when he turned to Jesus and looked at himself through the eyes of God, his life became more relaxed. He knew he was precious because of God’s love. He understood he could excel in his work because God gives ability and grace to those who look to God humbly. How could he not go to sleep peacefully then?