Though people often take the path of least resistance and would rather take it nice and easy, our natural state is not one of rest and comfort but one of movement and struggle. Sure, I need periodic moments of rest but movement and activity are the sure signs I am still alive. Medicines, diet and just plain rest (as in doing nothing) do not help me control my hypertension. I need my regular physical exercises to maintain my blood pressure at 120/80.
And so it is too with life’s questions and challenges. The easy and obvious answers are often the wrong answers. So many wonderful people love me. I love those who love me, right? Christ says: “Not quite. You should also love your enemies. Love others as much as you love yourself.” Really? For every action, there is always an opposite and equal reaction. So, if somehow hits me; I hit back, right? Don’t get mad, get even. Christ says: “Forgive those who hurt you or do you harm.” Really? Today, most everyone is looking out after themselves, enjoying good times and chilling out, with so many choices for leisure, pleasure and entertainment. Christ, almost sounding like a spoilsport, says: “Take up your cross daily. Be meek and humble of heart. Sell what you have and give to the poor.” Really?
Christ has often been contrarian and his teachings counter-cultural. That got him into trouble with the authorities and many of his followers too. He has inspired many people down the ages and in many places, all having worked to make this earth a better place to live in. I have tried all these years to be his follower. Some times I enjoy some measure of success. Often, I struggle for it is not the easy way. But I would not have it any other way.
Jesus said to the disciples, “You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, so that you may be children of your Father in heaven; for he makes his sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the righteous and on the unrighteous.
Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.”
Matthew 5:43-48
Excellent post, I especially enjoyed “Christ has often been contrarian and his teachings counter-cultural. That got him into trouble with the authorities and many of his followers too.”
I can relate to that, as someone who is calling out, “Church as we know it, see it and experience it isn’t even close to what the Lord has in mind.”
Thanks for the comment, Geno.
My own sentiment is that while Christ has inspired many people, he would probably be shocked by what some poeple claim to do in his name.
You’re right. Let’s keep in touch, and if you have a chance, take a look at my site.
I just did. Looks like there is lot of construction going on. Will drop by every now and then.