We Hoobastink

I was listening to “The Reason,” by Hoobastank earlier. Love the song. I am once again reminded of the human condition that we wrestle with. Check out the lyrics:

“i’m not a perfect person. there are many things i wish i didnt do
but i continue learning. i never meant to do those things to you.
and so i have to say before i go, that i just want you to know

i’ve found a reason for me, to change who i used to be
a reason to start over new, and the reason is you

i’m sorry that i hurt, its something i must live with everyday
and all the pain i put you through, i wish that i could take it all away
and be the one who catches all your tears, thats why i need you to hear

i’m not a perfect person, i never meant to do those things to you
and so i have to say before i go that i just want you to know

i’ve found a reason for me, to change who i used to be
a reason to start over new, and the reason is you
i’ve found a reason to show a side of me you didnt know
a reason for all that i do, and the reason is you”

The author has ruined a relationship because of poor decisions. Their decisions are based upon their inability be completely good (depravity). The loss is a catalyst to consider change (the need for redemption). The motivation to change - “the reason” - is the person they hurt.

This story plays out over and over. We desire to be in control. We think we know what is right. Then, “Bam!” our stupidity reveals that we are broken and in need of help. Many will move into a place of confession: “I’m not a perfect person,” “I never meant to do those things,” “I’m sorry that I hurt you.” From confession/admission we move towards our version of repentance. We do what we can to change: “I’ve found a reason for me, to change who I used to be.” Then we press forward with our plan. The cycle starts over when we run out of steam and come face to face with our human condition again.

The problem is that if we look inside or sideways, we will never have the ability to sustain change. Redemption cannot occur through our self-effort or through motivation from another person. True redemption is not from the inside or sideways. It is from above. There must be an inward change, but it must come from something more powerful than our will or desire. That something is Jesus Christ.

Take your confession to God: “I’m not a perfect person,” “I’m sorry that I hurt you.” The surrender to Him and His ways: “I’ve found a reason for me.” Go to repentance: “to change who I used to be, a reason to start over new, and the reason is You.” Walk in forgiveness and grace. In the eyes of God, we hoobastink no more.

The beauty of the resurrection of Jesus is that we see what is dead become alive. Without Jesus Christ, we are zombies - dead men walking. We are locked in the human condition. The hope that Jesus brings is that if he conquers death, depravity and the human condition, He can bring that freedom to us. Are you free? Do you have a real, sustaining “Reason?”

Now try this. Sing the chorus of “The Reason” to God.

__________________________
David Thew
Sojourn Pastor
Thewblog