Jun 1, 2013

Simple, Love, and Truth

“You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your strength.” Deuteronomy 6:5 (Mark 12:30, Luke 10:27)

“For all the law is fulfilled in one word, even in this: "You shall love your neighbor as yourself."   But if you bite and devour one another, beware lest you be consumed by one another!” Galatians 5:14-15 (Math 22:39, Mark 12:31, Luke 10:27, Rom 13:9, Jam 2:8)

   “True monuments are timeless.  Their grand, simple forms – domes, pyramids, arches, obelisks – are such profound expressions of their time that they transcend time, lasting as long as things last, as permanent architectural truths.”  -Eero Saarinen, architect of the St Louis Arch.  (Designed as a catenary curve, the shape a weighted hung chain would assume when hung between two points.) 

Architect Saarinen wanted the arch to be seen for miles, and it also fits as the “Gateway to the West.”  This simple form has withstood numerous natural disasters, and millions of visitors through its museum and observation room.  It also serves as a reminder of the grand dreams of President Jefferson, and the many explorers extending the United States across the continent. 

  It is also amazing the profound wisdom found in simple statements.  So much of the Bible truth is found in the two “great commandments.”  As true as it is, it is still a far concept for most contemporary Christians.  God is such an awesome presence, we see only a portion of all He is.  We worry, not trusting He can protect us.  We withhold our tithes, unsure God will provide for our needs.  We have a long way to go to understand even the simple concepts of God. 

   We must also consider what it is to “love your neighbor as yourself?”  We are quick to judge, but seek others to sympathize when we are the one’s misunderstood.  When we go through our lives most thoughts are for comfort these days.  How can we make our lives easier?  How should I prepare for the future, retirement and college?  I have 100 dollars, would it be best to get a new _____ or find someone without food, shelter, or a chance to hear the gospel?  It is very hard to find a balance between our needs and our wants; yet we must continue to find sacrifices so we can share our blessings with others.  God told Israel he would make them a blessing to the nations.  The greatest fulfillment is Jesus coming from the Jewish family line, but it also is a reference to God’s ability to bless with resources.  He gives us more than we need so we can be a blessing to others.  God asks us to be faithful in the simple or small things.  What sacrifice can we make for the gospel?

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