Fellow Labourers-
I believe the struggle with perspective can be a daily game especially if our hope is not anchored in Christ. Since Monday I have read a few books and articles from the news that could have a mind altering effect if I did not know in whom I have believed. Consider an article criticizing Usain Bolt for accepting a piece of the Berlin wall from the Mayor of Berlin. Then an article shouting at me that in less than ten seconds Usain Bolt will be earning US$500,000.Think about how long and hard some of us have studied and laboured and even after many years of working have not yet amassed $500,000. But, on the other hand, you were happy with yourself until you see and heard all of this. Perspective, Perspective, Perspective. I have learned in whatever state I find myself to be content.
Now consider these four words, Skepticism, Cynicism, Hope, Optimism. These are my views of some of our talk show hosts. If you listen to Straight Talk (Mutty) you will get a glimpse of a perfect cynic. Mrs. Gloudon (Hot Line) is the perfect Optimist. Ronnie is the man of Hope and Garnet Roper is the skeptic. As we get older in life our perspective tends to shift and passes through all four phases. On my way from the UWI hospital on Tuesday evening I chatted with a young lady whose visit to the ward had an immediate impact on her outlook/perspective on life. When our perspective can be changed suddenly by occurrences around us, we are treading in dangerous waters. We need for our perspective to be more secured in something that is real and lasting. Elder Ian Gardner in last night's bible class asked the question "what is more real than the presence of God?" Will your anchor of perspective hold in the storms of life?
Pax Vobiscum
Robert A. Stewart
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Elder:
ReplyDeleteThis is indeed a challenge. While it is true that perspective is important in moving forward, it is a different story when the reality hits that you can't make ends meet, or pay the bills, or go on a vacation, despite of your best efforts orachievements, etc. Why do some persons (presumably serving the same God) achieve so much more than others? It is simply a matter of perspective or are we missing something...? For a number of older persons (some in our membership) who never got an opportunity to succeed, or those that gave up opportunities that their children could 'have a chance' to suceed, they often look on and wonder what has happened to their blessing and whether they made the right choice.
For me, I am a realist, often pragmatic, but nobody's fool. I have hope and optimism; often I may be cynical or skeptical. I do believe that the majority of the utility of perspective is really for the hereafter, and to keep you humble inspite of accomplishments. However, we know the scripture "faith without works is dead"; I will, like the apostle, continue to demonstrate my faith by my works. I still believe that "nothing is impossible."
Peace
Paul