Wednesday, August 7, 2013

The Whirligig Is No Place For a Life of Love!

Over the years I've sought true fellowship with other Christians, but have found that this is very difficult. It is much easier to do things with non-Christians, because it seems that Christians are always very busy doing "important things." There are always so many good reasons for people to be rushing around. I realize that most people are on the 'merry-go-round' so that they can find people to talk with, but there isn't much opportunity for true conversation there. Yet, when you stay off the "merry-go-round" of constant go-go-go, life then gets very lonely. You watch all of your potential friends speeding past you on the whirling platform, while you enjoy the sunshine and the picnic table all by yourself. Perhaps you can wave and throw a few words of encouragement as they speed past, but that's about it. Some say that you must work side be side on the whirligig in order to have an opportunity for more exchanges.

The Latin term  conversatio means  a life of thoughtfulness, or a process of turning an idea around with others. Its roots mean: con (cum) with & versat turning around. The word came to mean turning ideas and thoughts around with each other. I've always thought that a truly thoughtful "conversation" is one of the most exciting things in the world, especially when you can get to know the people with whom you are conversing. This inspires your own mind and heart to grow and improve.  It inspires creativity and action!
Be imitators of God, therefore as dearly beloved children and live a life of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us a s a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.
~  Ephesians 5: 1-2             

In light of this verse, should we reconsider the way we live? I've often wondered how we can justify rushing about from one activity to another, primarily to make sure that our children progress in their careers. Leaving very little time for developing relationships with others. It seems to be very hard for us to put free time with nature, books and people at the top of our list. There are endless projects that we feel must be done, and they will always get in the way of living a life of love. But if we provide ourselves time for study, prayer, and reflection on God's wonders, we will be overflowing with praise, will develop sensitive hearts, and be able to practice love for others more and more. What better 'project' could there be?

4 comments:

  1. I love this post. It means a lot to me and I feel somewhat affirmed! I have noticed that since we've moved, I have more time for reflection and prayer, but I have fewer friends because I know so few people. Everyone at church --the first and most obvious place I'd like to find close friends--is SO BUSY. It's funny to think that I have actually said to my kids, "when we get involved in stuff here, we'll be back in sync with everyone and we'll get to know them more." That is, when we join them on the merry-go-round. However, the unexpected feeling I've had is one of apprehension to jump back into all of that. I do want to know people and I do want deep and meaningful relationships, but they take time (and much more time when everyone is rushing about). I'm feeling sort of protective of this new-found time, but not because i like time to myself. Rather, I'm rediscovering that this time is essential if I want to grow in ways pleasing to my Lord. Just having time to reflect and think deeply has been meaningful. What would complete it would be the ability to discuss these ideas (what I'm reading and the ways it is changing me) with other people who were involved in similar pursuits. I feel certain that these things make me a better friend and a better witness to the beauty and glory of God.

    ReplyDelete
  2. Thanks so much for your responses. I feel like someone came over to my lonely picnic table! :)

    ReplyDelete
  3. Everyone in life has to face some consequences and we should not stop ourselves just because of them, instead, we should fight against them and try to become more strong.

    ReplyDelete