And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose. Romans 8:28 ESV

By: Scott Schuler

After a short battle with cancer earlier this year, my father-in-law went to his eternal Home with Jesus. Although Steve lived over 80 abundantly blessed years, his legacy will continue forever because of what he taught us in his final time on earth.

A self-described late bloomer in his Christian journey, Steve admitted he lived his earlier years looking for meaning in the wrong places. Career and long work hours, relationships, success by the world’s definition were all futile attempts to find purpose in what he did. When he came to know Jesus in his later years, Steve’s hunger for the Word and Will of God grew.

Although he was in the fourth quarter of life, Steve knew he had a God-given purpose and he wanted Jesus to teach him what it was. He wrestled with three questions that would reveal the answer, like missing pieces of a puzzle:

Why am I here?

Why is the world this way?

What can I do about it?

Once Steve shifted his focus from what the world offers to humbly seeking Jesus, the puzzle began to come together. I witnessed his passionate pursuit of Truth and relationship with Jesus become Steve’s top priority.

He focused less on what he should do and more on who he could become as a child of God.

Steve’s puzzle looks different from ours. But we all have purpose. Our answers to Steve’s questions may help us begin putting the puzzle together.

We are here to glorify God (1 Corinthians 10:31).

Created in His image, our actions, thoughts and love of others should reflect how God loves us.

Why is the world this way?

Ephesians 6:12 tells us our battles are not against flesh and blood, but “against spiritual wickedness in high places.” When we recognize Satan is the reason for evil in this world, we stand on the victory Jesus has already won. Stop looking at the faults of others and put the blame where it is due.

What can we do about this messy world? This is the best part.

When we accept that God created us to live right now, in this time, we allow Him to light up our passion like a roman candle with divine purpose.

Even though Steve’s body was weak in his last days, his peace and joy were more powerful than ever. Over Easter Sunday dinner, he shared God had revealed the answers to these questions and he wore them on his heart like a badge of honor. Steve, I look forward to comparing notes when we meet again.

Steve found his answers in God’s Word. God desires to share the answers with you, too. Open your Bible and start with the book of John.

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