Perfection Is Not!

Edwin Bliss said, "The pursuit of excellence is gratifying and healthy. The pursuit of perfection is frustrating, neurotic, and a terrible waste of time."  - Tim Hansel, Eating Problems for Breakfast, Word Publishing, 1988, p. 39.

Perfection. Merriam-Webster defines perfection this way: the quality or state of being perfect: as freedom from fault or defect. This is something that is strived for in our lives. Whether we seek perfection in the arts, athletics, science and mathematics, even our own relationships, we discover that perfection is unattainable, but worth trying for.

Although Mahatma Ghandi wasn't a Christian, he admired Jesus in many ways. He saw the power of the doctrine of the resurrection. He once said, “A man who was completely innocent, offered Himself as a sacrifice for the good of others, including His enemies, and became the ransom of the world. It was a perfect act.“

I think we can agree that perfection is a rare commodity. We've all seen "perfect" scores in the Olympics, and on televison programs where dancers and singing acts show off their talents. All of this makes for great entertainment, for sure. But, as you well know, the basis of these "perfect" performances are all subjective; and at the mercy of whoever happens to be judging them at the time.

The point I am making here is that there is a flaw in all of this. What is being declared as "perfection" is decided by "imperfect" beings. We, in essence, have set up our own "standards of perfection" so that we may pat each other on the back when we meet them.

While I'm at it, I'd like to burst a few more bubbles here (please forgive me!) There's no way that we can ever be perfect! I know, I know, I can hear the grumbling right now. But, sadly it's true. The list is pretty long regarding our attempts at perfection, and even longer of our failures to attain it.

There are many negatives connected to perfectionism. Among these are: stress, discontent, and frustration. When we set the bar so high, that it cannot possibly be approached, we create a situation for many mental and emotional issues, as well. Even so, many well-meaning folks continue to seek what is basically unattainable.

We can apply these things to our spiritual lives, too. According to Gospel, we are unable to save ourselves. We all "fall short"; we all "miss the mark" (Romans 3:23). Being sinners (which is what we are), we need a Savior. Fortunately, that's where Jesus enters the picture.

When you and I trust in Him, something wonderful happens. He forgives our shortcomings; our imperfections; and our inequities. We can stop aiming for an arbitrary, worldly "perfection" and abide in the Perfect One (Matthew 11:28).

Scripture: Ecclesiastes 7:20; Matthew 5:48; James 1:4; 1 John 4:12; 1 John 2:5

Prayer: Dear Jesus, help me live my life for You; and not in sin and the imperfection which exists in our imperfect world. Amen

May God bless you,

Macey