“Living the Dream”

There is more than enough room in my Father’s home. If this were not so, would I have told you that I am going to prepare a place for you? John 14:2 NLT

I was recently at an estate sale and overheard a conversation that began with “How are you?” In response, the person stated in an upbeat manner, “Living the dream.” It was as if time had stopped. We waited for further clarification of the dream; was it an abundance of money, a great job, good health? However, he never said another word as all eyes watched this stranger jubilantly walk away.

Living the dream is a subjective state of mind. No two individuals will replicate the meaning of what the dream is to them. My interpretation of living the dream may be tied to significant interaction with my family, enough money to pay the bills, the enjoyment of being retired, or experiencing a pain-free day.

From a spiritual perspective, Eternal Life should be our dream and every thought and action should reflect this desire. Even though we are told in John 14 and Revelation 21 that Christ is preparing a new home for us, many have lost hope in this promise. We are putting most of our time and energy in the pursuit of secular dreams–tangible things that will eventually be destroyed. Do we really understand God’s promise of “a new heaven and a new earth?” If yes, then we live for God and strive for Eternal life, which is through sanctification, wholly committing ourselves daily to God.

The thought-provoking statement of “living the dream” has me seriously thinking about the changes I need to make in my spiritual journey. Unlike working to obtain “the dream” from a worldly perspective, I am unable to do good works to receive Eternal Life. It was not a coincidence that I heard the stranger’s response. There are changes that I need to make in my life if I desire to hear Jesus say, “Well done.” Thank you, God, for getting my attention-my commitment to you needs major improvement.

© Sonya Johnson Ruiz 2020