Dispensing with Approval
Jan 22nd, 2012 by straightfriendly
Sunday’s Gospel about Jesus calling the first disciples—and the attendant texts—projects a “drop everything” message that makes a lot of us queasy. Why must following Christ risk destroying relationships and security? It doesn’t. It asks us to get over our need for approval so that we can learn to live free of opinions and doubts that entangle us. Dispensing with approval is discipleship’s first step.
Text of the podcast is available at http://straight-friendly.blogspot.com/2012/01/dispensing-with-approval.html.
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This reminds me how we are asked by Christ to be in the world but not of the world. In Romans 12:2, it states “And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.” In Jesus, we are given a sort of new skin to travel, work, love, and pray in the world but, because we are wed to live the life He exemplified, we wear this skin slightly apart from the world.
I used to think monks and nuns cloistered away from the world were the more perfect examples of Christ’s teachings. After all, they devote their entire lives to prayer and thanksgiving. Now, I think it is a greater deed to live the life and teachings of Jesus while living in the world. In the world but not of the world; in the world but wearing the clothing of one devoted to the teachings of Christ Jesus. I suppose that is in part why He asks us to be as little children, fresh and renewed.
Thank you for yet another insightful podcast!
Britt,
Thanks for the comment. I completely agree. Following Jesus while living in a world that often refutes His teachings is indeed challenging. We keep bumping into “what makes sense” and often get accused of being naïve and idealistic. I love the connections you make here, particularly your closing observation about why Christ asks us to be childlike–most of all, its opening our opportunity to be “fresh and renewed.” That’s powerful all by itself!
Thank you so much for adding much illumination to the podcast. And, as always, for your support and love.
Many, many blessings always, Tim