The magnificent Renaissance sculpture, so often copied and photographed, was apparently not made from good quality marble. Over the years, the inherent weaknesses have been made worse because the 5m high statue was made to lean forward for 300 years! Now there are fears that an earthquake or vibrations from passing heavy traffic might make the 5.5 tonne statue fall.
In our own bodies, many of us know that our weakest joints are usually our knees. Wear and tear, old age and sporting injuries all take their toll.
But there are other sorts of weaknesses which may become obvious, as time passes. Instead of time being a great healer, it may be that time is a great revealer.
Perhaps this is what Gerry Adams is finding at present. The past has a habit of coming back.
St. Paul had time, while under house arrest in Rome, to consider his past life. He knows very well that he had been a persecutor of the early Christian communities. And he also knows that he was turned around by Jesus. He reflects on this. 'Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead, I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us.' (Philippians 3.13-14)
Having thought that his own life was proof of being right with God, he now realises that only Jesus can deal with his weaknesses and wickedness. 'I no longer count on my own righteousness through obeying the law; rather, I become righteous through faith in Christ. For God’s way of making us right with himself depends on faith. I want to know Christ and experience the mighty power that raised him from the dead. I want to suffer with him, sharing in his death, so that one way or another I will experience the resurrection from the dead!' (Philippians 3.9-11)
Today, I am aware of many weaknesses in me. But I also know, with greater confidence with every passing day, that Jesus is my Saviour and deliverer. That is wonderful to know.
Best wishes,
Richard
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