Chronicles (Part IV): Fundamentals

As I mentioned in the introduction to this site, my departure from England occured some time ago. I’m collecting and sharing these posts now because I have moved past the place of pure frustration and confusion to a place of increased perspective. Again, my journey is not yet complete. But perhaps I’ve seen a sufficient amount along the way that I can now more safely navigate the waters. That said, I don’t want to ignore the fact that I’ve crossed paths with my fair share of dangerous lands- most, if not all, of which were intentionally approached (you can decide for yourself the wisdom of these decisions).

So before I share with you the experience of the seasoned yachtsman, I feel compelled to share the (in)experience of the foolish runaway. Just like Chesterton felt in recounting his voyage, many of these “chronicles” are somewhat embarassing to me now- just as, I’m sure, my current ones will be at a later time. But the point of this endeavor is not to preserve my pride. It is to be honest…

I’ll be posting seven pieces from the early parts of my journey.

8/25/2008

Three schools of thought regarding the Biblical expression of love…

True love is only concerned with bringing other people into a relationship with God and securing their eternal place in Heaven. This must be the ambition behind all of our actions because all other actions, not directed at this goal, simply equate to making people comfortable on their pathway to Hell.

When Jesus met a spiritual need, He almost always accompanied it by fulfilling a physical need. He would tell someone that He was the Bread of Life, but he would also provide physical bread. He would tell someone about the spiritual healing that was necessary only through Him, but He also healed their physical sickness.

Love takes many forms. It can come as a warm meal, a free visit from a doctor, or a word of encouragement when it is most needed. The love of God need not be blatant. Sometimes you must meet physical, emotional, or otherwise “non-spiritual” before you can ever bring up the condition of a person’s soul. In fact, a silent but loving embrace may do far more for a person than a pamphlet detailing the 5 steps to Heaven.