Cheerios have a great purpose. They keep Tatum focused through the sermon, and she really does listen! Those little O’s should be marketed as a cereal with staying power. Plus, they fit on her little fingers.
Really, an abundant life is illustrated by a simple Cheerio.
First, they are round. Round things just feel good to hold;
there are no sharp edges and they are complete. Our lives can be complete if we let them. Why is it so hard to just be OK with the “not there yet” mentality. That circle does not seem to close in our lives because of something not quite right at the moment. Yet, Paul points out that God said, ““My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me.” (2 Cor 12:9). Sure, it can sound cliche, but honestly, we need grace. Why? Because we will ALWAYS feel incomplete; even when we THINK we have it all together. That circle only closes when we throw up our arms and just say DONE…I’m done trying to make everything so perfect!
Second, they are easy to clean up.
You can spill Cheerios everywhere, but a few sweeps, and poof! All clean. No fuss no muss.
I know when I mess up, I can make it messier than it was in the first place. Usually because of an unforgiving spirit, unmet expectations, or just plain selfishness. How hard is it to take a broom and just sweep it clean? “The LORD is merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love.” Ps 103:8 He sweeps things away pretty fast if we are repentant. We need to do the same (for ourselves too!) Life is messy! Why? Because we are messed up people relating to other messed up people. I must look in the mirror first and get cleaned up with some simple sweeps from Jesus. He will clean me up. (Then I pray for others)
Finally, Cheerios are not too sweet; they are just right. The Bible even warns about too much of a good thing: “If you have found honey, eat only enough for you, lest you have your fill of it and vomit it.” (Prov 25:6)
This analogy convinces me that as I progress in this life as Tatum’s mommy and in my own endeavors, it’s easy to get imbalanced in one area. Being or having “too much” of anything is not healthy. Listening to the Holy Spirit prompt me when I have anxiety gives me a glimpse into my imbalanced moments. Being reflective I often find when my focus is on Jesus, my anxiety wanes. (and my “Cheerio: becomes complete).
The way Tatum adores her babies is how Jesus feels about US. She is jubilant to see them, she embraces them with tenderness, and she helps them feel secure.
Who knew that a little O could illustrate the staying power that we all need in this life.
Now, I think I’ll go have a handful (unsweetened original of course!) 🙂