The Perfect Banana

by Carol Levergood

And ye know that he was manifested to take away our sins; and in him is no sin.…I John 3:5

“I love bananas,” is an understatement. Brazil had so many varieties to choose from, I found myself gorging on them. I would nibble on them all day; small Apple Bananas, Plantains, and “Prata.” How is it I wonder why diabetes surfaced? Not realizing how many carbohydrates were packaged in this small fruit, I devoured them during 21 years.

The best stage to eat bananas in my personal opinion is between green and ripe. I am particular because too green, to me, is grainy. Too ripe is mushy and too sweet, unless used for banana pie or banana bread. I like that halfway between the green and ripe, still solid and touched with only light green at the top. Did I say I like bananas?

Am I picky? Yes! And just like the perfect ripening of the banana, I became that way about myself. I wanted to be that perfect example, the perfect pastor’s wife, the perfect wife, mother and friend. Not too sweet, not too grainy on the palette, just perfect! And when I failed, I was devastated. The perfectionism in me would take over and would not let people see me less than perfect. And if I were wrong about something, I was too proud to admit it. Better the front, than to admit I messed up.

The fear of failure was my ultimate apprehension. I must still watch what I tell myself, or I fall right back where I was. Like an alcoholic, I fall off the wagon once in awhile and end up facing defeat. Funny, I am not a perfectionist in some things. I have come so far though in allowing breathing room for myself.

I have sinned against God in this matter way too often I must remember only He is perfect. When I put myself on that same plane, I am sinning against God Almighty. Only He is sinless, whole, perfect, and was the day He chose to die for my sins and yours.

I can be funny about how ripe the bananas are, but why fret over something I will never attain, on this earth. I am though, to strive to do better than the day before. One day we will face eternity with Jesus; once there, I will sin no more, and won’t be green either. I’ll be just right in Jesus!

Father, In Jesus, I ask you cleanse my heart of any sinful pride. Take away my habits that seem to take away from me reflecting you. Thank you for loving me as I daily seek your will, Perfect Heavenly Father.

Article Source: http://www.faithwriters.com/