Ok, this post is not going to have a lot to do with the kids. I'm frustrated and need to get this out. An acquaintance sent a friend of ours an e-mail about how he is growing in his faith and has realized that it is "more important to fight for a cause than to have fun and socialize." This person used to be part of our planning group. He left in a fit of anger during an event last summer. Sporadically, he will send cryptic e-mails to our friend, who is also part of the group. This time it is all about how happy he is at his new parish. That is great. I'm glad he's happy. That isn't where my issue lies. He ended the e-mail with how as he's grown in his faith, he has realized that there are causes worth fighting for and that is more important than having fun and socialization. On the surface, one may wonder why I have an issue with that statement. It's true, after all, right? There ARE causes that needed standing up for. My issue is that I don't think one outweighs the other. Hear me out, I think we are called to do something particular. God has a specific plan for each of us, a purpose just for me and just for you. As a mom and as a wife (and daughter, sister, friend, etc.), I also believe we are all called to evangelize, get as many people to know and follow God as possible. One big way to spread that word is through socialization. I also believe that anyone who works 100% of the time is going to burn out more quickly. Jesus didn't preach all the time. He made time for the wedding at Cana, for example. I KNOW as a mom if I get out and away for a couple of hours to visit with friends, I come home much more ready to be 100% there for the kids and Bryan and that's when the best example can be set. I am not saying I run out and "play" all the time. On the contrary, the times are few and far between. Really, my bottomline is that we all lead by example. Our actions speak much louder than our words. If we truly LIVE Christ's teachings, then others can learn through us. THAT is what I hope and pray to teach our children. I may not solve world hunger or end abortion or the death penalty or war or so many other atrocities that plague this world, but maybe my children or my grandchildren will or maybe it will be someone who I touched at a "social event" that is so unimportant in some people's eyes. Fighting for a cause is important; it's PART of the evangelization and call to Christ. It is not everything, and not getting out there every day to fight for a cause because I am raising my family does not make me less of a Christian than someone who does!
I would love to hear comments on this one. It is really bothering me today, obviously!
3 comments:
Amy, I really do agree with you. I think people need to keep things in perspective, it's like if I'm teaching my student's learn from my example. The best way I can help others learn about Christ is to set an example, and for me that's teaching, which I say is very social. I know it's not exactly what you're saying but that's the best I can relate to it in my own terms. I also feel that some people just don't have thier priorities in the right places. Living the best Christ centered life we can is how we reach others, not by throwing everything we have into one thing. Yes dedication is important, but like I said you have a balance. Hope that all makes sense???
Personally, I think God HAS a sense of humor; I also think He means for us to "lighten up" (I can't help but think that's why He made the rainbow with so many colors - He COULD have just stopped the rain!) and enjoy the people and places He has given us. Joy comes in many forms - when your friend felt his way was the only way, he was imposing on YOUR joy. I don't think God would like that - not only did Jesus go to the wedding, He helped keep the party going -because His mom asked him to! Joy has to be seen and shared - with all the brillance God gave the medical fields, He still lets laughter be one of the best forms of healing! Should be the same with spirit.
Thank you, All! You have made me feel MUCH better.
Post a Comment