Week 2 - Additional Post
Just a couple of things that struck me in the Simply Christian reading. I thought I would reflect on them for my own benefit (and possibly the readers, as well).
In part two, Wright points out something in the life of Jesus that was always there for me to know, but something I just never put together. In retrospect, it feels silly that I didn't put this together. There was a disconnect between Jesus- the man and Jesus- The Lord. Wright outlines that Jesus was not "aware" of his divinity, but was aware that he did have a job to do. In my head, for years, I guess I just pictured Jesus and God going over the "gameplan" in heaven before Jesus' earthly birth, never it occurred to me that Jesus was born and lived in some fashion as a normal human. His relationship with God and awareness of his calling was, in my understanding, something that was divine yet Jesus developed the calling through prayer and knowledge of the scripture. To quote Wright "What it means to speak about Jesus being both truly divine and truly human." This small section took me by surprise. I enjoyed reading through it, it interesting to try to imagine how Jesus felt about himself. His feeling of divine purpose had to feel weird- I think of myself and trying to figure out God's plan. I listen for his voice and try to follow obediently, but Jesus felt it in the deepest part of his being- not to just be some kind of missionary or take on pastoral care, but to be the SAVIOR OF ALL... no biggie? Incredible.
Another section of the book highlights how some of the questions we ask God or about God can't be answered entirely because there are some things that we can't truly comprehend. Even the greatest minds born into this world could not encompass such a big God! It comparing apples and oranges or colors and shapes. The language of God's creation is far too complex for a simple minded human to understand. When I try to build a box for God to live in, He often breaks the mold. This boxing is not necessarily a good thing but it is part of the human curiosity. Even people that don'y necessarily believe in God, when asked 'What would you ask God if you ever met Him?' Most of them would say without hesitation "What is the purpose of this life?" or "Why did you create the Universe in the way you did?" I believe these questions point to a curious man-kind. One that want to KNOW, but never will in their lifetime. In conclusion, I will continue my quest to know God more intimately and also whole-heartedly pursue His love(s), but I will also accept that God is too big, too perfect, too loving - I should let God be God: Creator, Savior, King and Friend.