Since I no longer work on Sundays, I find that I am a little more reflective. When I pastored a local church, Sunday was a grueling marathon that required skill, determination, and preparation just to survive. Now, though, I can hear more and listen better. Here are two things that I heard yesterday that stuck with me.
Control is an illusion.
Our small group had a wonderful discussion about trusting in the Lord and not giving in to the temptation to worry. Worry stems from a desire to control. But really, we control nothing. Therefore, worry is futile. The Lord is in control, and the only appropriate response is faith. As with so many truths, this is much easier to say than to do.
I’ve been thinking about the things in my life that I am guilty of worrying about, and it is not a pretty sight. I have much to work through.
Never hate your enemies. It affects your judgement.
This comes from the mouth of Michael Corleone. Last Sunday we watched The Godfather and The Godfather Part II at a double feature in one of Austin’s old movie houses with some dear friends of ours. Yesterday, I watched The Godfather Part III here at home. Now, The Godfather Part III is rather poor, especially compared to the glory of the other two. Sofia Coppola almost single-handedly destroys this film. Nevertheless, this line about not hating your enemies, shouted from a helicopter just before a mafia boss meeting stuck with me. Corleone says don’t hate your enemies. Jesus says love your enemies. The two statements are not the same.
image from josmarlopes.wordpress.com