The Question of Passion…
Jun 3rd, 2010 by ljkim
Two Sundays ago we talked about “passion” – and we pointed out that one way to define true passion is a willingness to suffer for something… Not just a willingness to suffer, but even a gladness to suffer; the toil only adds to the joy… For those passionate about travel, the act of packing and going to the airport is part of the excitement! For those passionate about mountain climbing, the sense of distress as you get to a new problem (dangling in mid air) is part of the joy. For those who are passionate about academic advancement there’s a sense of accomplishment from a good night of studying or a particularly grueling exam – it adds to the feeling of elation afterwards…and they look down on those who can’t bear it… Even those who are simply passionate about partying face the aftermath with a sense of “that was a great night.” Passion can be defined by this willingness and gladness to suffer.
The earliest Christians, when they faced persecution for the first time (they were roughed up by the religious police) didn’t go home and write whine – they rejoiced. They were glad that they suffered something for Jesus’ sake. This made it more real to them.
True passion for something worthy makes us feel alive, and gives us a sense of purpose and unyielding energy…
So the question is: “What would it take to make you a passionate follower of Jesus?”
What would it take for you to be as passionate about Him as capitalists are passionate about making money – as world travellers are passionate about travelling – as snow boarders are passionate about snow boarding?
There’s a part in a poem by George Herbert that says something to effect: in our hearts there is always room for toys and idols and awards and pursuits, but like at the Inn in the Christmas story, there is (too often) no room for Jesus.
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