Close Enough?

Being close can be encouraging, but contentment there can be more serious than perhaps we sometimes acknowledge; at least in some areas of life. Have we become satisfied with hitting close to something when the goal still needs to be on aiming for the precise target? To use an analogy from archery, we might feel good when we have at least hit the target. After all, some may be missing it altogether. However, isn’t the goal to hit the “BULL’S-EYE”? Until we do that, we are still MISSING THE MARK!

MISSING THE MARK! That is what sin (Greek, “hamartia) is; missing the mark and thus falling short of the goal for which we are to aim. Yet, how many times have we rationalized where we are in life by thinking that as long as we are hitting somewhere on the target most of the time we are close enough?

Jesus dealt with some who may have thought they were close enough to the target, but in reality still needed to take better aim. Though their actions may have appeared on target, what was revealed through a closer and deeper inspection of the life? What was the “BULL’S-EYE” or heart of the matter for which to aim?

Considering the first of two examples from Jesus’ sermon on the mount, we read . . .
“(21) “You have heard that it was said to those of old, ‘You shall not murder; and whoever murders will be liable to judgment.’ (22) But I say to you that everyone who is angry with his brother will be liable to judgment; whoever insults his brother will be liable to the council; and whoever says, ‘You fool!’ will be liable to the hell of fire.” ( Matthew 5:21-22)

We might feel we are doing just fine because we have not killed another, but Jesus indicated the need for taking a serious look at the relationship itself. How are we speaking to or treating others? Our actions and words can kill enthusiasm, hope, joy, reputation, etc., as well as provide stress that could take a toll on another’s health. Jesus went on to point to the importance of focusing on the importance of right relationships even as one came to offer their worship to God. ( Matthew 5:23-26) Such reveals doing what we can to reconcile relationships is important.

Now note a second example Jesus provided following this first.
“(27) “You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall not commit adultery.’ (28) But I say to you that everyone who looks at a woman with lustful intent has already committed adultery with her in his heart.”” ( Matthew 5:27-28)

Someone might say, “Well, I didn’t commit the act, so I am okay. I’m close enough.” No! Jesus implied the MARK HAS BEEN MISSED and it is not close enough! It is not simply the outward act, but what is going on within that must be seen as being the “BULL’S-EYE” or heart of the target.

We may think we are close to the target, but if we do not recognize the true condition of our heart focus, we have MISSED THE MARK where God desires us to aim! May we continue aiming for the “BULL’S-EYE”, never becoming complacent with simply being close. While we continue to re-aim and shoot again, let us also be thankful to God for the help we have in Christ ( 1 John 2:1-6) as we acknowledge sin for what it is and appreciatively accept the forgiveness He provides. ( 1 John 1:9)

Have a great day DEVELOPING GREATER SPIRITUAL MARKMANSHIP!
Carl

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