Categories: uncategorized
Date: 20 January 2006 19:35:21
"A man needs his darkness when he follows The Son"
Martyn Joseph in The Great American Novel.
I like that line. Its his only explanation for the suffering in the world - the way we're all equal, but the rich are more equal than the rest. And it makes sense. If you tried to follow the sun constantly, then after a while you'd want some darkness. Just like nobody who tries to follow Jesus, does it perfectly. We have our 'dark moments'. Humans aren't expected to be perfect, we all make mistakes.
It reminded, of our bible study meeting on Wednesday. We were talking about grace (using a DVD and study guide based on Philip Yancey's book - thanks to Alice) We looked at the Prodigal Son, and how the father in the parable, showed grace to his son when he returned. We agreed, that although it can be hard, you should show grace and forgiveness to those who hurt you.
We talked about the unconditional love. One very interesting quote from his book basically said that there is nothing you can do to make God love you less, and there is nothing you can do to make God love you more. The first half that statement, you do kinda expect really, but the second half is less not often mentioned. But it is true. Of course, then the temptation is to think that you can do what ever you like, because as long as you say you're sorry before you die, then you'll be ok - God's grace ensures that. Ummm... I remember one RE lesson when I was doing my GSCEs when we were discussing the issue of forgiveness. One of the mischievous lad in the class said 'you mean, i can do anything I like, as long as on my death bed, I ask God to forgive me?' Our teacher (who wasn't religious) absolutely SNAPPED! She had a strong voice, and wasn't afraid of using it. But surely, if that is your intention, throughout your whole life, then He would know. He's not stupid.