Metaphors with a Message
Saturday, yesterday afternoon and today we focused on getting our “mailing list” completed. This included those who donated to my “medical relief fund” and those who sent cards to me while in the hospital, along with our standard Christmas list. We have 400 names on our list, so we have a true “holiday” newsletter because it may not get out by Christmas. The ongoing support of those who have encouraged us in this journey to full recovery has been greatly appreciated.
Yesterday after the first service at Timberline Church, I was excited to meet a cousin of mine who has recently moved to our neighborhood. (see picture) Kathy Neal and her husband Tim moved to Fort Collins from Virginia. Kathy and I share the same great-grand parents (our grandfathers are brothers). I had heard of their move when Debbie’s sister told us about meeting the Neal’s daughter at their church. Kathy’s mother lives in Nebraska and has supported and followed my service in the Colorado House. Tim and Kathy visited Timberline for the first time on Sunday morning and it “just happened” to be the Sunday my story was being featured.
BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY…. “No soldier gets entangled in civilian pursuits, since his aim is to please the one who enlisted him. An athlete is not crowned unless he competes according to the rules. It is the hard-working farmer who ought to have the first share of the crops. Think over what I say, for the Lord will give you understanding in everything.” 2 Timothy 2:4-7
The challenge and the priorities of the Christian life can be explained in a multitude of ways. Paul in these verses uses three metaphors that can speak volumes. In these there may be more than just what I observe on the surface that is why I believe Paul presents the challenge to “…think over what I say…” It would be interesting to gain perspective from a solider, athlete and farmer today. Short of that here is my take on the life of the soldier.
Soldier’s are individual’s committed to a cause and work as a team to get their mission accomplished. They train and prepare and are aware of the need for the order and chain of command that is part of their life. Each person has a role and each role is vital to the success of their mission. Keeping focus is of vital importance. Their is a reason that down to today the contrast is made between “military service” and “civilian life.”
One of the greatest challenges for believers and one of the greatest temptations in life is to lose focus of our calling. In the parable of the soils, Jesus said the seed that fell among thorns was choked out by the “cares of the world.” The Bible is clear that no one can serve two masters. Obedience to our “commander” is of supreme importance. Winning the commendation of well done for your service is the goal.
I find Paul’s words of interest when he says, “…his aim is to please him who enlisted him…” The NIV version does use the words, “commanding officer.” I believe there can be some take-a-ways from both of these. For a soldier, faithfulness in the execution of duties gains the attention of a high ranking officer. It becomes an aspect of stewardship of ones duties.
But when I consider the work of a military “recruiter” in our present day, I realize that their desire is for those they recruit to be successful in their training and the execution of their duties. I am sure that when a recruit does well, it brings a sense of pride to that recruiter when he becomes aware of that individuals success.
While God’s love is not dependent upon our efforts, we still need to make sure that our “…aim is to please…” the Lord through our life and service.