Great Perspective
Once in a while I get some things sent to me that really resonate and are just too good to keep to myself. This one comes from my friend Mike Olejarz who is one of Chi Alpha leaders in the Boston area. Thanks Mike for including me.
Enjoy fellow blogites…
The Story
I was reading the biography of a scientist and how he wrestled with the application of his faith in Jesus to his witness in the university he served. He often went to his pastor for insight, guidance and spiritual coaching. On one occasion the pastor told the scientist to continue to live for Christ, look for opportunities to share the gospel, all the while excelling in the laboratory and classroom. He added that it was his privilege to minister to the people of the academy, the people who make up the scientist’s “galaxy.” Family, friends, colleagues, students, co-workers all make up the “constellation” or arena of our influence. The pastor then pulled a book off his shelf and read about John Donne. Donne lived from 1572 to 1631, was an author and English minister, and knew that we are interconnected with many others. Donne wrote, “What touches one, touches all.” Our words and deeds affect those around us – in many varied and profound ways. Similarly, what others do affects us. In Meditation 17, Donne wrote, “No man is an island, entire of himself: every man is a piece of the continent; a part of the main; if a clod be washed away by the sea, Europe is the less.” He went on to stress the personal application: “Any man’s death diminishes me, because I am involved in mankind; and therefore never send to know for whom the bell tolls; it tolls for thee.” In John Donne’s day, a church bell would toll (or be rung) to announce the death of a member of the local church. The ringing caused people to think about their own mortality. It is still true today. Death touches us. All of us know someone who has died. Death is coming for each of us. How are you living with that sort of awareness? Here’s the point. Our words and deeds have consequences. Sticks and stones hurt when they hit you. What we say and do impacts others in and around our “galaxy.” The bad choices we make extend to the far reaches of our “constellation.” Of course, so do our wise choices, good decisions, acts of kindness, words of encouragement, expressions of respect, thoughtful gestures, and examples of love. Read Colossians 4:2-6. What step(s) can you take to live it out this week? Jesus, the Light of the World (John 8:12), told us, “Let your light shine before men and women so they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven” (Matthew 5:16). Serve globally. Each is us is called and equipped to impact the constellation of our influence for mankind’s good and the glory of God. Is the overall impact of your life positive or negative? How can you change for the better? Your constellation needs the revelation of Jesus.
Love is a verb,
Mike
