The Blisters Always Come First

My Grandfather’s Son is an inspiring memoir of the life of Supreme Court justice, Clarence Thomas, told in his own words. One life principle that Thomas’ grandfather passed on to him was, “the blisters always come first.” When young Clarence would show up at his grandparent’s home to work with his grandfather during summer break, he was never allowed to use gloves while he transitioned from the soft handwork of college study to the tough handwork of construction. He remembered how sore and blistered his hands would become in the first couple of weeks. After the relatively brief period of pain, the strength, toughness, and calluses would come that made his work go smoothly. This saying, “the blisters always come first – then the calluses” became a metaphor for life. It is also a metaphor for the life of a disciple.

Each time God has called Jodi and I into a new ministry or job there was always a period of apprehension learning the ropes of the new position and finding the foundation to stand upon. However, after a time our work routine/goals became clear and we knew where we stood. “The blisters always come first – then clarity in your ministry/work.” Likewise, when Jesus led us to a new home or city it was awkward in the beginning. Nevertheless, once we got a feel for where we were and became familiar with where what we needed was located that new place became comfortable and felt like home. “The blisters always come first – then the feeling of comfort and home.” Finally, each time the Spirit encouraged us to step out to develop or use a gift God had given us for ministry, it seemed difficult upon our first steps to use the gift, but the gifts did progress with consistent use and practice. “The blisters always come first – then the skill and effectiveness in ministry.”

There is always a period of uncomfortableness and even woundedness (blisters) when trying to make a change and work at something new. Yet, if we will endure the pain, in dependence on the Holy Spirit, at the beginning of any new pursuit before we know it the new strength, calluses and reward will come. The goal of God for each disciple, “to be conformed into the image of Christ” means the disciple is called to follow in a transformation process – a process that has change as a constant.

Here are some questions to ask as you inventory your thoughts, heart and life in view of this metaphor for a disciple’s life… In your desire to be your “Heavenly Father’s son” are you willing to follow through the blisters? Where are you attempting to isolate yourself from God’s plan for your life? You are trying to insulate yourself and your life from any pain even though you are not happy in your present state. Where are you fearing the brief upfront period of “blisters” and forgetting the long lasting “rewards” that always result from journeying through the blisters? What attitudes, behaviors, ways of living and even relationships must you rid your life of like taking off a pair of gloves so you can experience life for real and the abundant life God intends?

Even though the holidays are coming, let us follow the Lord without insulation or isolation, and receive the blessings on the other side of the blisters.

Lord bless,

Pastor Kelley