Did you know Jesus was asked 183 questions, but chose to answer fewer than 10? Even more intriguing: Jesus asked 307 questions throughout the gospels. The ratio of answers given versus questions asked is noteworthy. The Son of God, possessing wisdom beyond our understanding, chose to enter the human experience full of questions rather than direct answers.
Jean and I have a 16-month-old daughter named Adeline. She has special needs which require special attention. Though caring for her has been difficult at times, she is a unique blessing to our family. Being someone who is used to being on the move, having Adeline in my life has caused me to learn how to slow down…substantially.
I remember reading these words when I was a teen thinking, “Woah, I’m like a city on a hill. Epic! But, what does that mean?” Have you ever read scripture’s declarations or promises and thought something similar? Better yet, have you ever read scripture thinking it applied to you personally, but when you tried to live it out, it felt impossible?
The desire for meaningful friendships is universal, yet loneliness plagues us. The cultural trend since the middle of the 20th century to increasingly elevate the individual, the relentless pressure of displaying an idealized version of ourselves on social media, plus the nearly infinite ability to connect with anyone paradoxically leaves our hearts aching for true relationship.
Before we get too far into February, let’s pause to see how last month went. Maybe things have been getting off to a great start. Maybe there were challenges, pressures, or circumstances that required us to exercise some courage. However we’re doing, one thing is certain, none of us would mind becoming more resilient.
Can you believe the first month of the year is almost over?! Time definitely flies. In fact, Groucho Marx said, “Time flies like arrows. But fruit flies like bananas.”
I hope you’re having a good start to 2019. As we look at this year, I encouraged you to consider what the shape of growth looks like for you.
I love this time of year because I love beginnings. Whether it’s a book, project, or goal, my motivation to start something is at its peak. My motivation to finish? That is more a learned discipline than a natural desire. But that’s part of the beauty of a new year—forgetting the unfinished and getting a redo.
