I woke up from a dream where this question was the last thing asked. Upon contemplation it appears to be a false dichotomy. Carrying Christ with you continually refreshes your soul and cleanses you of ashes. Slavery to sin is broken. Engagement need not be feared.
-
-
Show this thread
-
In this false dichotomy is timidity sown and the edge of the tool blunted. In fear of staining ourselves we often fail to immerse ourselves in the world around us. We fear the encroachment of sin which we believe is inevitable. Too often this keeps us aloof from those in need.
Show this thread -
Rather, mindful acceptance that the chains of slavery have been broken, that WE DO NOT HAVE TO SIN ANY LONGER, and a total fixation on the truth of Christ renews the spirit with every step. Sin is no longer inevitable. We do not slide hopelessly into temptation. It can be halted.
Show this thread -
The powerful truth is that we no longer have to sin. Every sin is a choice of disobedience. And we can choose obedience through discipline, preparation, and useful techniques. Learning deeper obedience is precisely the purpose. So engagement is not to be feared. Christ renews.
Show this thread -
Imagine a child learning to walk. They are safer never walking because they will never fall. But what parent wants their child to never walk? Instead, the parent guides with outstretched hands bracketing the child on each side. Calls the child forth. And heals any scrapes.
Show this thread -
We are like children learning to walk. There will be falls. There will be scrapes. But we are bracketed by outstretched arms waiting to guide and rescue our souls. We will be comforted and healed of scrapes and bruises. We need not fear the walk for we are loved and watched over.
Show this thread -
And so, engage without fear. Walk without fear. Run without fear. Be mindful, practice discipline, prepare in advance for temptations, learn techniques to draw out humility and dependence on the Lord. How much more effective is a Church visibly living and loving without fear?
Show this thread
End of conversation
New conversation -
-
-
Don't do that. That's the way to the Manichees. If "the world" were that dirty, Jesus would have told us all to hide in a monastery. He didn't. He wanted us to go out there and kick ass, and save souls, if only by example. Strap on the armor of light, and Deus Vult.
-
That’s been close to my line of thinking. I woke up from a dream where this question was the last thing asked. Upon contemplation it appears to be a false dichotomy. Carrying Christ with you continually refreshes your soul and cleanses you of ashes. Engagement need not be feared.
- Show replies
New conversation -
-
-
This Tweet is unavailable.
-
This Tweet is unavailable.
- Show replies
-
Loading seems to be taking a while.
Twitter may be over capacity or experiencing a momentary hiccup. Try again or visit Twitter Status for more information.