A friend of mine went to a Renaissance festival over the weekend. He began showing me pictures of the different displays and costumes. What I found fascinating was the fact that most of the costumes and displays were Star Wars themed!
It got me to thinking about the Renaissance. The term Renaissance is derived from the French word for rebirth. Many of us think of the period of the fourteenth through sixteenth centuries where there was a massive rebirth in the areas of culture, arts, and science. It was Western civilization's answer to the Dark Ages. If not for the Renaissance our culture would not be where it is today.
On a personal level, many of us come to a place in life where we feel that a rebirth or renaissance is needed. We pause to take a look at where we are. Is this where I thought I would end up? We begin to evaluate ourselves and ask questions. What is the meaning of all this?
We often begin to look for answers---generally in all the wrong places. We seek fulfillment in money, relationships, pleasure, possessions, accomplishments and the list goes on. For many it just gets worse as these things in themselves to not bring answers, satisfaction, or meaning.
G.K Chesterton said, "Meaninglessness does not come from being weary of pain. Meaningless comes from being weary of pleasure."
In our culture pleasure seeking is at the forefront. We seek numerous types of pleasure at every turn. We want to watch the best movies, drink the best coffee, eat the most delicious foods, read the best books, and so on. Pleasure is a good thing; but it does not bring what we are looking for.
Where does it come from? Where do we find what we are looking for? We need a renaissance. We need a rebirth. I am not talking about reinventing yourself like Madonna (so what if I'm a fan!?) has done each decade! I am talking about a change from the inside out.
Our problem is primarily internal. This means the solution is likewise internal.
When Jesus of Nazareth came to this earth He came to deal with this. He said He came that we may have life---and have it more abundantly. This is a fullness of life that most people never enjoy. Jesus also said that unless a person is born again the Kingdom of God cannot be seen. That's your rebirth your renaissance!
If you have come to this place in life where you need a rebirth seek after Jesus of Nazareth. You will find that He not only gives you the answers you need but that He Himself is The Answer.
-Jason Vreeke
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