Friday's thoughts
"We have a Decision to Make"
There comes a time in our lives when we have to determine what we are going to do about the way the world is. We have the option of just letting things go on their way and assuming that what is is what will be. We can opt of indifference to things assuming that there is nothing we can do so why should we try. Everything that came before us will continue on its way and there is little we can change.
It seems to me this is a defeatist attitude and we would want to confront this with an approach that looks at two things:
1. The creativity of the individual: We should never underestimate what power one person has to make a difference in the world. As Maya Angelou once said, "God with me is always a majority". The creative potential in each of us can move things to a place they have never been and can create a world that has yet to become. God is the creative process that allows us to think new thought and do a new thing.
2. The transformative power of our interactions: It doesn't take many people working together to transform a situation. Jesus had just a few disciples. The result of their work transformed Judaism, and brought about a "new Covenant" with God. God is in the transforming power of people joined together to build on the common good that lives in the human heart.
I am tired of listening to the prevailing discouragement I hear. Certainly, there are events that disappoint us. Clearly, life isn't what it should be. Obviously, there is danger in the world as we have seen recently in Virginia. But it doesn't need to be that way. We can change it as long as we make a decision to tap into the creative process and work toward transformation as we join together.
Henry Nelson Wieman believes God is revealed in Christ and that is not determined by intellectual assent to propositions. It is determined by the impact of a society and a history, a tradition, and a fellowship. It is driven by what we hold to be the source of all human good.
We have a decision to make. Will we accept what is or will we allow God to work through us to bring forward what ought to be?
How does that speak to your life?
If you have thoughts write me at charlesschuster@fcfumc.net If you are willing to have others read your thoughts click on the "comments" box below.
I look forward to hearing from you.
Charles
Gideon was looking for miracles. But he hadn't been looking in himself. He had to step forward and transform through God's power to something greater.
Paul calls us to be transformed. Jesus says we must be born again. James says faith without actions is hollow. A relationship with God, according to all these folks is one of action, growth and transformation. It is certainly not one of passive intellectual acceptance.
A book back in the '60's by two young brothers called "On The Loose" had the quote "Adventure is not in a guidebook, and beauty is not on a map. Seek and you will find". Either a life of adventure or a life lived for God is active and interactive. We must not forget that Gods miracles are worked through us. That which can bring us hope lives through the one we see in the mirror each day. If we don't let that light shine, who will? If not now, when.
It's not enough to be crucified with Christ. We must also live and let Christ live within us. That life can't be contained. It must transform us and grow to transform others. (Comment this)