“Missing the Mark” (Another Look)

Recently one of our deacons presented a devotional at a men’s breakfast we have each month where I preach. According to him, it was his first time to present a devotional of any kind in any setting. Along with all of the other men there, I thought he did an outstanding job.

One part of his presentation really made me do some thinking. Part of that was due to the material he presented. Part of my thinking was also because of what I know about the man presenting the material.

He was doing a great job talking about different aspects of sin. Much of what he said has been said by others on various occasions, but repetition is not a bad thing. In fact, Peter informs his readers that he would consider it to be a part of his duty to remind us of things we already know (cf. 2 Peter 1:12-13). 

It was then he started talking about the fact that one of the words in the Greek language that is translated as “sin” in the New Testament literally means “to miss the mark.” I am always challenged when I am reminded of that.

I was especially challenged this time because I knew that the man reminding me of that is a very accomplished skeet shooter. He has won numerous awards for his ability in that field.

As I listened to him and thought of “missing the mark,” I thought of how good he is as hitting a moving target. I also thought about how difficult that must be and how much practice it has taken him to be as proficient as he is.

I then thought of how frustrating it is for any of us to try to “hit a moving target” in other areas of our lives. When parents keep changing their expectations for their children, the children become very frustrated. Many give up on trying to hit a moving target as children and  end up doing their own thing. 

Could it be that the reason morals are on the decline in our nation is that the standards keep changing? When what is accepted today becomes unacceptable tomorrow or when the reverse is true, it is difficult to “hit a target” like that.

On one level, it is encouraging to know that God’s standard–His “target”–is constant. Since the time when the last inspired writer, John, passed from this life, the Divine Standard has been God’s will for us as it is revealed in His Holy Book. 

On another level, it is discouraging for me when I “miss the mark” in the most important area of my life. Some may become so discouraged that they just quit trying. Others may foolishly think they can actually become so proficient that they hit the target all of the time.

Still others will see their weaknesses as evidence of their need for a Savior. They will, as the song says, “trust and obey, for there’s no other way…”  I hope that all who read these words are in this last group. 

None of us can be sinless (cf, Rom. 3:10, 23; 1 John 1:8, 10, etc.). We can, however, allow the blood of Jesus to cleanse us from sin as we “walk in the light” and receive forgiveness as we, with a penitent heart, confess our sins to Him (cf. 1 John 1:7, 9).

I have no idea how many awards our deacon may have won over the years. I do know, though, that all of them together do not compare with that “crown of life” all of us hope to receive someday. 

I’m thankful that he reminded us to “keep shooting.”

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