Not made for this world.
Chris Cahill · 2 min read · First published 2024-04-29
Longing for more can be difficult to put into words. This reflection considers a Christian reading of that longing without treating the feeling itself as a settled argument.
A place to begin
In his profound insight, C.S. Lewis once stated, "If I find in myself desires which nothing in this world can satisfy, the only logical explanation is that I was made for another world." These words encapsulate a truth that resonates deeply with Christians, reminding us of our dual citizenship in both earthly and heavenly realms.
As Christians, we believe that we are created by God with an innate longing for something beyond what this world can offer. We often hear people say that as Christians, we should be “in this world - but not of it.” This yearning for something greater, something transcendent, reflects our ultimate destiny with our Creator. It speaks to the eternal aspect of our existence, pointing us towards a reality beyond the confines of time and space.
In our pursuit of earthly desires—be it wealth, success, or pleasure—we often encounter a sense of dissatisfaction, a lingering feeling that there must be more. This dissatisfaction is not a flaw in our design but rather a signpost directing us to our true home. It reminds us that our ultimate fulfillment lies not in the transient pleasures of this world but in the eternal presence of God.
Reading with care
However, while our hope is anchored in our eternal reality with Jesus, we must be cautious not to become "so heavenly-minded that we are of no worldly good." As ambassadors of Christ, we are called to engage with the world around us, to be His hands and feet in the here and now. Our focus on the eternal should not lead to neglecting our responsibilities in the present.
Instead, our heavenly hope should fuel our earthly endeavors, infusing them with purpose and meaning. It should inspire us to live lives characterized by love, compassion, and justice, reflecting the values of God's kingdom here on earth. In doing so, we bear witness to the transformative power of the Gospel, offering glimpses of the eternal in the midst of the temporal.
Carrying this into life
Read slowly, with room for another person to hear these words differently. May what we learn draw us toward a more patient conversation and a life more attentive to love.
Let the reflection meet the next person you speak with. May wisdom help us listen, unity keep us open to one another, and grace become visible in the care we give.
Wisdom · Unity · Grace
