Insightful Musings on the Scriptures

by

Raymond P. Sparre
Northwest University class of '67

Greetings, dear ones.

It’s getting late. Lots to give my attention to. But I don’t think I could find a more beautiful morning to be overwhelmed and stressed in.

And I can’t imagine a better time to be embracing and nurturing our Biblical faith…that sees beyond the chaos of our present world…the bizarre and the stupid…than right now. Indeed “We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure” (Hebrews 6:19). I honestly do not comprehend how others cope without this anchor. And yet I do, in measure. I guess the absence of this perspective helps to explain why many are so frantic and angry—because the present is about all they have—and they cannot stop being freaked out by seeing radical changes mess it all up.

Becki and I did a walk/jog…with the dog. It really does afford some great time to get into some great discussion. We sure have a lot to talk about. Wish you could join us.

Late breakfast is on. Blessings on your day.

Love, Dad/Ray.

Favoritism can be found in many, if not, most, human relationships. Teachers will often have favorite students who receive more attention and privileges than other students. Bosses often have favorite employees who may receive an unequal amount of benefits. Parents sometimes have a favorite child who is actually loved and cared for in greater measure than the other siblings. The Bible reveals some of this kind of inequity when Isaac’s favorite son was Esau while Rebekah’s favorite was Jacob. Then Jacob’s favorite kid was Joseph, and you remember all the jealousy and bitterness that resulted from that. Probably the most negative aspect of all this favoritism is when one is in the position of the non-favorite and has to cope with all the hurt, anger, and rejection that can go with it. Pause here for a moment and try to take in the flawless character of our God—our Heavenly Father. “There is no favoritism with him.”

This passage deals with the roles and responsibilities of several basic positions within human relationships. Favoritism can potentially plague them all. There are responsibilities of wives, of husbands, of children, of servants, and of bosses. It is good to know that there is no position or person that is more important or more highly esteemed before the Sovereign Father than the other. In general, each one has equal responsibility before Him to perform their duties as if they were married to, parented by, or working for the Lord Himself. Oh, I know that this kind of concept can be passed off as overly idealistic. Truly the practical application may be easier said than done. But don’t allow yourself to toss the principle out the window because of that. Ain’t nothin’ easy that’s important! At least we are given a standard to measure by and strive for. There really is a wealth of value in this simple concept toward achieving harmony and equity in our relationships. Without allowing any favoritism in the realm of your thoughts, think about it.