We may be preoccupied with perfection, but our idea of perfection is entirely wrong. First of all, perfection is subjective. Everyone’s definition of perfection is going to be slightly different, so we cannot give perfection a single definition according to human standards. Second of all, our mere human ideas of perfection are actually “filthy rags” (Isaiah 64:6) in God’s eyes. While we pursue wealth, success, happiness, and an idealistic, worldly life, we don’t realize that our pursuits are futile and will lead to death.
We measure our identity and self-worth on how good of a job we do, but God measures our identity based on how good of a job Jesus did. Jesus lived a sinless, perfect life in our place. Jesus was perfect—we cannot be. Jesus is enough—we are not.
So, what does perfection look like? It looks like loving God with all of your heart, soul, mind and strength and loving your neighbor as yourself. It looks like willingly sacrificing everything to love even your enemies. Perfection looks like laying yourself bare before God in authentic and raw prayer. It looks like following God’s will, even when it doesn’t make sense in the eyes of the world. This perfection was achieved for us, now it is only a gift to be received. Once we receive Christ’s gift of holiness, we don’t have to pursue the filthy rags we used to call perfection.
Reflection/Discussion Question: How does the Gospel help you understand true perfection?
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