This world as we know it is worth celebrating and protecting. How can we not appreciate the wonder of creation?
From the intricacies of a spider’s web to the grandeur of a thundering waterfall. A galloping horse, a bouncing puppy, a humpback whale breeching the surface of the sea. The promise of a sunrise. The depth of the night sky.
The human condition can also reflect the best of this world. Children’s laughter. A newlywed couple sharing hopes and dreams. A grandchild running through the front door calling out for Grandma or Grampa. The creativity and devotion of artists, composers, writers, athletes, and inventors. Our own ability to work, play, imagine, and strive for excellence.
The world provides so much for which to be grateful.
At the same time, most of us are crushed and confused by how brutality, negligence, and hostility seem to be on the increase. Wars. Terrorism. Mass shootings. Racism. Hate speech. Extreme poverty. Child abuse. Teen depression. Bullying. Environmental disasters. Pornography. Genocide. Suicide.
Something has to change. Right?
As someone who believes in a Creator God who brings order out of chaos, you find yourself wondering, What is my response to the turmoil and strife? How can I make the world a better place? What is my God-given responsibility?
These are excellent questions. And they lead to even more compelling questions, How is my assignment unique? What can I do differently than every other believer?
Have you ever thought about that? You should! Just look around at your own circle of friends and family members and you’ll realize how we all have different gifts and abilities. That tells us that even if we’re all aiming at the same destination, each of us still has our own set of assignments.
So what are those boxes that only you can check? What are the ways you can make the world a better place?
In his New Testament letter, Paul offers this guidance: “Each one should test their own actions. Then they can take pride in themselves alone, without comparing themselves to someone else, for each one should carry their own load. (Galatians 6:4-5 niv)
Does this passage surprise you? Read it again.
Are you seeing any principles that challenge your long held beliefs or understandings? For example: Should we test or trust? Should we be proud of our accomplishments or does “pride go before destruction”? If we’re not supposed to compare ourselves to others, what’s the value of mentoring or modeling how to live? Finally, doesn’t Galatians 6:2 tells us to “carry each other’s burdens”?
My takeaway lands on this idea: The world needs people who call themselves Christians to act like it. Each of us—in our own way—can make the world a better place.
Choose today to start checking those boxes only you can check. Maybe keep a journal. Anticipate an attitude shift among your neighbors, family members, and friends. Even watch the news headlines, both local and around the world. Your commitment to making the world a better place will make a difference.
Thanks for blazing this ancient trail anew,
/jay
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