Monday’s thoughts
Sermon for Sunday, June 24th
“What If I’d Never Been Born?”
This is one of the most important questions we will ask ourselves. What in the world would be missing if we had never been? What do we bring to life?
In some ways it is much less than we would imagine. What we bring to the world we may wish to something grand and wonderful. We hope to be able to bring about major changes for the good in a world that needs so much good to come. We think of the ways we would like to contribute.
There are people who have done wonderful things with their lives. There are people who have made major contributions. Look at some of the great scientists whose research has led to discoveries that have changed lives! We probably haven’t done anything like that. Consider peace-makers who have confronted social problems like slavery, racism, poverty, disease, and war! That has not marked our contribution. Then, there are people whose talent has been exhibited and who have brought joy to millions; people like Marion Anderson, and Todd Helton, or John Elway. We will never sing like Marion Anderson or throw a football like John Elway.
There may be little that is remarkable about our lives as compared to others whose lives are what legends are built from. But we must never conclude that it doesn’t matter that we are born.
I will ask about the contribution of our lives, but in such a way that we realize what is remark about us. It does matter that we are alive. We do make a difference. This coming Sunday I will have us explore that important issue.
Just a few questions:
What is the most remarkable/unremarkable achievement you have made?
What regrets do you have?
What could you have done that you failed to do?
How do other people view your accomplishments? Does it matter what they think?
If you have thoughts on this subject write me at charlesschuster@fcfumc.net. If you are willing to allow others to see your responses click on the “comments” box below.
I look forward to hearing from you.
Charles
