There is much wisdom in my friend’s attitude. After all, some people become so caught up in looking for a fairy tale that they refuse to settle for anything less and miss out on the good that life holds. Furthermore, Proverbs 4:23 warns us to guard our hearts – and I’m sure that includes not losing our hearts to a dream that, by the very nature of a fantasy, cannot truly satisfy.
Despite the obvious value of my friend’s attitude, I felt compelled to consider the contrary view. Could there be value in seeking after what most would call unrealistic?
At the end of season six of The Office, two of the principal characters, Jim and Pam, get married. Their wedding was one of the most romantic sequences I’ve ever seen. Would it be wrong to not only seek such an experience but to expect it from one’s own life? I think most people would view such an expectation as unrealistic since they probably have never experienced anything like that in their own lives, nor have they known anyone who has.
But the writers of The Office were, at the very least, able to imagine such a thing. If the mind of man, made by God and in His image, is able to envision such romance, certainly God can. And if something has crosses God’s mind, is it not possible?
No eye has seen, no ear has heard,
and no mind has imagined
what God has prepared
for those who love him. (1 Cor.2:9)
My friend’s approach is certainly wise. It can be destructive to live one’s life divorced from reality. But let’s not let the limits of our experience cause us to shorten God’s hand. Why not ask for – even expect – the best that God as in mind? We have not because we ask not – not because something is beyond the imagination or ability of God.
And that is a reality that I can live with.
I read this before but thought I would get on and read your final version. I really like this line...let’s not let the limits of our experience cause us to shorten God’s hand.
ReplyDeleteI can really relate to this. Personally I need to do some more dreaming, but it is even bigger than me. Can you imagine, if we really did live in a nation of people who dreamed and were in touch with the heart of God? Watch out!
I have a verse that I have adopted as my verse for 2011. This is my version of a new year's resolution. It is in Matt 6:34 I think (too lazy to look it up) Seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness. And, all these things will be added to you as well. I think he wants to bless me and others, but first we have to get outside of ourselves. Know what I mean? :) Good blog Jerry.