In today’s harsh reality of selfishness and greed, some say there is no such thing as a gift. Giving is always with motive or interest and that disqualifies it. I would argue that while motive or interest will always be with us in giving, it need not necessarily abolish gift, as this would seem to depend on what the motive or interest are. Let’s say a canceling of gift might be the case if one gave it with the motive of receiving something in return, but if one gifts with a motive to satisfy or please the other and requires nothing in return, then the gift character of giving would not be nullified. That is, other interest wins—over a perverse self-interest—and preserves the possibility of true gift.
Monday, September 23, 2019
Thursday, September 19, 2019
Thursday Thoughts - September 19
Mark’s story is full of role reversals. Those who
think they see and hear are blind and deaf and those who are blind and deaf see
and hear. A life of following Jesus is not about possessing people and things
but about dispossession; being willing to let go, take risks, be courageous,
and not to fear. To be great you have to be least and the first will be last
and the last first. Those who want to save their lives will have to lose them
for the sake of Jesus and the gospel. And in perhaps one of the most striking
reversals of all, it is the demons and unclean spirits who know who Jesus is,
while the disciples don’t > go figure.
Monday, September 16, 2019
Reflection for the Week - September 16
The problem with words is often similar to that of the problem of bodies; breakdown, tiredness, wearing out. That is, through use and abuse words become artificial and overwrought. Their ability to “say something” is under threat as the grammar of mesmerizing entertainment captures hearts and minds with subtext and subterfuge. Imagination and creativity can combat this worthless diatribe and find new formulations in the hope of reshaping the living and dynamic meaning that pertains to the centrality of communication in human relationships, reading texts, and seeking God.
Saturday, August 31, 2019
Thursday, August 29, 2019
Thursday Thoughts - August 29
Destroying idols and listening to symbols is one of the keys that unlock living spirituality and possibilities for engaging the world and God. When this takes place we are no longer trapped within a network of self – other power plays that exploit us, but are embraced by a Divine love without measure, where freedom leads to redemption and transformation. Being loved in this manner supplies us with a new self and an identity that goes far beyond any of our own making.
Wednesday, August 28, 2019
Living Spiritual Rhythms - August 28
It’s almost as if the “poetic moment” is a suspension of time, in time. That is, this interruption allows for a spontaneity in the creative impulse to slash through the stark and monotonous ticking of the clock. The, aesthetically charged, then opens up imaginative possibilities for us to be in contact with that which is beyond, while we remain tethered to what is within. Fascinating !
Monday, August 26, 2019
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
