2016 picture of Ray Sparre

Insightful Musings on theScriptures

by

Raymond P. Sparre
Northwest University class of '67



February 23, 2016

Good morning, dear ones.

Beautiful clear frosty morning. And since yesterday remained cool, I reason that things didn’t warm up enough on the mountain yesterday so as to create an ice field. Therefore, I’m thinking I might run up there this morning and try it out for a couple hours—making that my setting for aerobic exercise. Wish you could come.

Have a great day.

Love, Dad/Ray.


23 February 2016
Psalm 54 / Proverbs 23
Focus: "Do not move an ancient boundary stone or encroach on the fields of the fatherless, for their defender is strong; he will take up their case against you.” Proverbs 23:10-11.

Insofar as human society is concerned, is there “an ancient boundary stone” any more embraced, established, and foundational down through time than marriage—the union of a man and a woman? Granted—this idea was most likely not intended by the author. But I think the shoe fits nonetheless. It doesn’t call for much scrutiny to see the negative effects of such a shift in our culture and collective conscience. Besides turning the very traditional definition of the word (marriage) on its head, that arrangement encroaches on the very existence of “the fatherless”—not to mention their achievements and possessions had they been given the opportunity to be born. Indeed, it is biologically impossible for fatherhood to result from “same-sex marriage.” Duh! Do you think the “defender” and Architect of this ancient boundary stone might get a little irritated with this perverse shift and take up the case against such arrogant defiant rebellion?

The previous chapter of Proverbs contains a similar injunction: “Do not move an ancient boundary stone set up by your forefathers” (22:28). While the boundary stone of marriage was embraced and practiced by our forefathers, it was set in place by our HEAVENLY FATHER and MAKER. In the original setting of the Garden, God said, “It is not good for the man to be alone” (Genesis 2:18)—and then proceeded to ditto the man. NOT! The “helper” He crafted was a woman. Bingo! This is not rocket science. “Therefore what God has joined together, let man not separate” (Matthew 19:6). But man does—to their own peril—taunting the Sovereign Maker.

Not only was I born as a result of respect for this “ancient boundary stone” and the accompanying miracle of biological reproduction, but the fact that I still exist on this planet is also a God thing. There is no real good reason why I should still be here—other than the intentions and sustaining grace of my Sovereign Maker. That’s exactly what David admits to as well. “Surely God is my help; the Lord is the one who sustains me” (Psalm 54:4). That’s why I often exclaim, “It’s not my fault I’m still here!”

“Do not let your heart envy sinners, but always be zealous for the fear of the LORD”
(i.e., a HEART AFTER GOD).
~ Proverbs 23:17 ~