Hog Washed A Small Fable about a Big Change

Meet Reggie. His story is your story. Reggie is a pig with a dream. He watches from the outside as the farm dog lives a life of love and favor in the farmer's house; and Reggie longs for that life too. But how can an ordinary little pig ever hope to be good enough-or clean enough-to be invited into the house? Everyone wants to feel loved by God. But too often; we think that performance; behavior; and "sin management" are the key to that closeness. And so; instead of acting like sons and daughters; we live like orphans. The orphan mentality of many Christians causes them to struggle with questions such as: How can I get God to meet my needs? What is the magic formula for prayer that makes God act? Which Scriptures can I quote to ensure that I get the blessings God promises me? What must I do to experience the benefits of being a child of God? The one who understands the reality of sonship never has to ask such questions. He knows that as a child of God; he is already living in the house; and his place at the table is assured.

Dr. Mark Wyatt is the founding and senior pastor of Deeper Life Fellowship in Mobile; Alabama. He holds a bachelor's degree from Auburn University; a master's from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary; and a PhD in biblical studies from Atlantic Coast Theological Seminary. Dr. Wyatt is also the author of The New Normal: Experiencing the Unstoppable Move of God. He and his wife; Mary Ann; have four children; Samuel; Sarah; Autumn; and Nathaniel. You can follow his blog at www.drmarkwyatt.com.