It takes us an inordinate amount of time to find a new-build home we’d like to buy.  Months and months of hits and misses.  What looks promising turns out to have an active railroad line almost in its backyard!  Others have dangerous slopes to navigate, mortally injuring ourselves trying to mow the lawn or weed the garden.  Even our helpful realtor seems stymied.  Nothing clicks until my wife discovers online a housing development that’s barely started.

Gloom turns to hope.  A local developer earns a decades-long sterling reputation, even willing to throw in extra freebies that we ask for (you know I’d love that!).  Of the ninety lots available, only two fit our preferred home design, which means that we have to act quickly.  No hemming and hawing.  No dragging our feet.  So off we go, driving 50 miles to our realtor with a check in hand to make the down payment.

Only need to give 2% of the total cost to lock in the purchase of our new home.  A commitment is made.  Us to them with some money.  Them to us, accepting our pittance as we promise to fork over the balance at closing in a few months.  Almost sounds too easy.  And in a way it is.  Thankfully, it works out fine and dandy!

This house-buying business reminds me of what St. Paul says in Ephesians 1.  About God the Holy Spirit, who becomes our guarantee of future blessings–‘…the promised Holy Spirit, who is the guarantee of our inheritance until we acquire possession of it…(Eph. 1:13-14).  The word ‘guarantee’ in the original biblical language means a down payment.  First, a lower amount is given, with the fulfillment coming later.  Similar to our 2% now with the 98% later when our home is completed and the transaction is closed.

If you think that you don’t have a full appreciation of your spiritual life now, it may be because our time on earth is the down payment.  That 2% split second.  The completed transaction comes later as the 98% ushers it in forevermore.  You know where.  And when.  So, don’t be so frustrated with yourself or others or life in general (I’m looking at myself in the mirror).  It’s about as good as it gets.  Keep your head up.  This is down payment moment.  Promises made.  Hopes given.  But later…now that’s going to be something to shout about!

Think so?  You’ll know.  All because of Jesus.  Soon enough.

For the best that’s yet to come, we thank you, Lord Jesus.  Amen.