When you're in the car for 13 hours there is ample time for reflection. Sunday, as we made our way from Dallas to Knoxville, my heart rambled in open fields of thought that are usually restricted due to the demands of everyday life. That's when I thought...man, I need to simplify.
As much as I long for simplicity I am forced to recognize the "simple" truth that life is complex. Maybe it's a function of our culture, maybe it's my own disillusionment with broad-stroked, over-generalized answers to life's difficulties, but "simple" is an illusion. Well...maybe illusion is a strong word, but if by "simplify" I mean to reduce demands in life the only way I can see to do that is to retreat up into the Smokie's. I do not believe retreat is not an option for followers of Christ. We are called to engage, interact, join Him in the story of missio dei. As the dashed lines raced by pulling me closer to life back in Knoxville I prayed for understanding. With sweet grace I felt the answer wash over me...I was praying for the wrong thing.
Simplicity is not the end goal, single-mindedness is!
What if simplicity is an effect of a greater cause, a natural outcome of a heart that chooses the limitation of Christ alone. There is discipline required, but discipline isn't the fuel, divine beauty is. Funny enough...this thought alone has already made my day sweeter. Maybe that was the point all along."But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you."
- Jesus, Matt 6.33 (ESV)
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