Insightful Musings on the Scriptures

by

Raymond P. Sparre
Northwest University class of '67

Good morning, nice people.

I have not yet been outside. Here it is nearly 9:30am. My computer is still on the dining table here next to the nice warm wood stove. I’ve spent some time here generating a fresh composition below—with some time examining ideas with Becki, as well as Thano, who has now gone to his work shift at Safeway. I’ve also processed a few email messages. Becki has some breakfast made, but I think I’m going to let it get cold in favor of knocking out a jog. Becki will soon be departing for regular Bible Study in Woodburn. On her return, she’ll be stopping at our mechanic’s shop to have the brakes assessed on the Accord. They’re squawking at present.

A mountain looms before me. Hey, speaking of mountains, I’ve just learned that the Palmer lift is functioning at Timberline. That’s another looming mountain to consider.

Have a blessed day.

Love, Dad/Ray.

Trying to keep things simple is of major benefit for me. I’ve learned that I don’t do well with things too complicated, or with circumstances that call for too much multi-tasking. My cranial computer can suffer overload real fast, that puts me into a state of confusion. As I look around me and observe others, I’m led to believe I’m not entirely unique. I see evidence of a lot of confusion displayed out there by people trying to live with peace, purpose, and contentment within the context of this fallen world.

I am finding a valuable recipe of simplicity in these words of Jesus directed to Peter. It’s particularly relevant for me personally as I carry on with this transition between being young and being old—and beyond. Now that I see myself clearly entering the status of the OLD, I must not miss the glaring evidence that I’m getting closer and closer to the BEYOND part. Let me see if I can take these ideas from Jesus apart and apply them to myself without adding too much complication. Perhaps we should first set forth the passage: “Jesus said, ‘Feed my sheep. I tell you the truth, when you were younger you dressed yourself and went where you wanted; but when you are old you will stretch out your hands, and someone else will dress you and lead you where you do not want to go.’ Jesus said this to indicate the kind of death by which Peter would glorify God. Then he said to him, ‘Follow me!’” (John 21:17-19).

1. LOVE + SERVICE = MY PURPOSE IN LIVING. Notice that Jesus first establishes Peter’s HEART AFTER GOD—or personal love relationship with Him. That is the essential basis for effective representation and service to others—to His sheep. And, of course, that is simply a restatement of the FIRST COMMAND that applies not just to Peter, but to me—indeed, to us all.
2. GETTING OLD AND FEEBLE IS UNAVOIDABLE—unless, of course, I were to die young. (But I guess it’s too late for me to die young.) That is a simple objective fact that I have no objective reason to deny—or complain about. If I am going to live with a sound mind, I had better deal with that fact. I am learning that not all old people are good role models for being old. In too many cases, getting old becomes a condition akin to a psychological disorder.
3. FAITHFULNESS TO THIS SIMPLE FORMULA GIVES ME THE OPTION TO GLORIFY GOD—EVEN IN MY DEATH. Some will chafe with this idea as something absurd—bizarre—radical. But in stark contrast to a worldly worldview (NATURAL SIN NATURE), that is exactly what it is. How can I extract any other meaning from the text?
4. I MUST NEVER ALLOW ANYONE OR ANYTHING TO DISCOURAGE OR DISTRACT ME FROM FOLLOWING JESUS RIGHT UP TO MY LAST BREATH. In so many words, Jesus is saying, “Peter, I don’t want to overload you with unnecessary details and complications. So here is my best and most basic bottom-line advice for navigating your course—JUST FOLLOW ME!”