Insightful Musings on the Scriptures

by

Raymond P. Sparre
Northwest University class of '67

Good morning, dear ones.

Becki and I have done our walk/jog together. We didn’t get rained on. But some of the sky looks like it could let loose at any time. Not sure how the day will go. I only know that I would like to give priority attention to our own place today. It seems that every square inch of our space calls for attention. I think it may be an impossible dream to think I could ever catch up with it all. I just need to make sure I have some fun trying…and not allow the impossibility of it all to render depression. I’m allowing you to hear me talk to myself.

I’m biting my lip again…or preventing my fingers. I almost spun off on some preaching again. Nuff said for now. I just hope you will be faithful to preach to you. Self-talk (self-preaching) is probably the most profound influential talk you will ever hear.

Blessings on your thinking, your saying, and your doing today (Psalm 19:14).

Love, Dad/Ray.

I’m trying to recall the words to that noble-sounding, moving, and dramatic song about an impossible dream—and unreachable star. If I just went online and “Googled” it, I’m sure I could get it all in a snap. But without doing that, here are some parts I do remember: “This is my quest, to follow that star, no matter how hopeless, no matter how far. And I know if I’ll only be true to this glorious quest that the world will be better by far when I’m laid to my rest…to right the unrightable wrong, to fight the unbeatable foe, to strive with my last ounce of courage, to reach the impossible star.” Can you hear the orchestra crescendo—and the singer hitting that emotional high note? It’s sensational! But, having said all that, I’m inclined to judge it basically as a bunch of idealistic and theatrical nonsense. I won’t take a lot of time to take the message apart. It certainly contains some misconceptions and portrays a worldview that is not compatible with my Biblical faith. It’s definitely not my theme song. I can’t seem to get very excited about committing my life to such an abstract, nebulous, and hopeless objective. Anyway, for some reason that song comes to my mind in contrast to what is presented in this great appeal and charge that Paul delivers to young Timothy.

Just in case you are looking for a great and truly noble quest in life, a cause to live and die for, an edifying contribution to the world, and one that is also achievable, look no further. I think it is quite well articulated for us right here. “But you, man of God, flee from all this (false doctrines, pride, love of money, etc.), and pursue righteousness (a right response to God’s Word), godliness (striving to follow God in your beliefs, attitudes, and lifestyle), faith (believing God enough to obey Him), love (‘agape’ love that is an act of the will), endurance (hanging in there with all the above), and gentleness (strength under control). Fight the good fight of faith (Faith is a fight—Ephesians 6). Take hold of the eternal life to which you were called when you made your good confession in the presence of many witnesses (so that your life remains a demonstration of your claims)” (1 Timothy 6:11-12).

But there is an unavoidable catch here! This too is an impossible dream for me—and an unreachable star—if left to my own resources. It is only by means of “Christ in you, the hope of glory” (Colossians 1:27). I simply can’t do it on my own. But “I can do everything through him who gives me strength” (Philippians 4:13). He is truly my SAVIOR! Praise Him!