Ongoing work!

The ferry has just left Dover but, with the wonders of modern technology, a wi-fi connection is available!  We spent last night with our good friends Ruth and Harry.  It was good to catch up with their news.  Then as we sat in the lane at the Dover Ferry Terminal, my wife noticed that the vehicle in front, in the adjacent lane, had a "fish and cross" symbol on the back.  Well, those who know me will not be surprised to learn that I got out, went over and, when the occupants returned, introduced myself.  They are a delightful family, en route to Hungary (the wife hails from that part of the world), to visit grandparents - and show off the latest addition to the family!  Their little boy, Daniel, has the most beautiful smile one could ever hope to see.

Shortly, it was time to board.  We were directed to the appropriate spot,and made our way up to the passenger decks.  That was when I realised that the ferry was (is!) crawling with workmen!  However, these workmen are not on holiday.  They are repairing/refurbishing/upgrading the ferry - and doing so even as we sail across the English Channel!  It's a work in progress!

I'm thinking of a friend of some years back.  That was one of her favourite sayings.  When she spoke about her Christian life, she would always make the point that: "I'm a work in progress".

Of course, it's true for every disciple of Jesus.  Each one of us is a "work in progress".  Sanctification - the ongoing process of becoming like Jesus - is not completed until we leave our mortal bodies and slip "through the veil" into His nearer Presence.   Oh, as I mentioned some posts back, I am seen, from an eternal perspective, as if I am already fully sanctified.  But that is because I am justified - treated, not as one who is sinless, but just as if I'd never sinned.  Father God looks on me - and on you, if you are truly "in Christ" - not as I am, but as He is making me to be.  I'm an ongoing work for the Kingdom!

I trust that the workmen on board the ferry will be doing an excellent job.  I know that, in spite of the poor material with which He has to work, God the Holy Spirit is doing an excellent job on me, so that He may "... present [me] without blemish before the presence of his glory with rejoicing," (Jude 24).  Hallelujah!