I decided on some life goals today. I want my life to includes a thorough exercise regime, plenty of sleep, consistent, relaxed time with God, a tidy house (but, of course), organized, efficient study, healthy, home-cooked meals...

You could say that what I want is a life of perfect harmony.  I'll take that!

I guess Paul might have liked such a life, too. But from my reading of 2 Corinthians 4, it doesn't sound like he often got to experience it. At times, ministry left him feeling confused, harassed and hurt badly.  Yet, he is optimistic about life. He explains, "While on the outside, we're wasting away, on the inside, we are being renewed more with each new day."  And later, "We are looking, not on the visible things around us, but on the things we can't see - they are eternal."

I can feel the silky magic of the satin on my bedquilt. I can see the pure blue sky through my window and I can still almost taste the yumminess of today's lunch (home made sushi). I can also feel the panic from overdue study crowding in on me. The chaos in my garage and other home messes jar my inner ear.

But all of this is transient. None of it will last - not the joys of a good dinner or the stresses of uni.

My life might never be perfect now. But eternity beckons my eye to look beyond my surroundings. A voice whispers, "Don't get so bogged down with life's hassles. Look into my eyes. Perfect harmony awaits in the land you can't see and the heart that holds you - now and then."