On
Relationship
Read:
Isaiah 11:1-10
I
often reflect on the subject of relationship, and would like to share
a few thoughts on this topic. I use the singular form of the word,
and not the plural, as I am referring to our one essential
relationship – our relationship to God, or to life itself, and not
to the “individual” relationships that characterize our daily
experiences.
We
normally think of humanity as a collection of individuals living at
different times and in different places within the space/time
framework. The teachings of the world constantly reinforce
individuality and therefore separation, rather than the shared life
essence that unifies all that God created. In the first account of
creation in Genesis we read: “So God created humankind in his
image, in the image of God he created them.” and in John 4:24: “God
is spirit and those who worship him must worship in spirit and in
truth.” What, then, is our essential nature – physical or
spiritual? God is holy and wholly loving, despite opposing images
that have arisen out of minds given over to fear. The attribution of
human qualities to the divine reinforces the image of an
anthropomorphic God (i.e., “the man upstairs”). Since God is pure
love, his creation must also be imbued with the same quality, a point
which leads to a fundamental shift in perception. Respect for and
appreciation of the holiness of life dramatically changes how we
experience it. Sharing and giving rather than taking and having
reflect the abundance of creation and the unconditional love of God.
Some
time ago, in a scholarly publication devoted to the emerging fields
of science and spirituality, I read an article that posits the
concept that cooperation and not competition is nature’s way.
Numerous examples were given by the author that support a very
different view of the interchange between living organisms,
especially in the “lower” realms of plants and animals. I was
intrigued by the cooperation that resulted in shared well-being. I
well remember the first time I saw a photograph of the Earth taken
from outer space. Here was a striking image of a relatively small
planet, covered in blue and white, floating in the immense blackness
of space, and home to billions of human beings. “We are all in this
together!,” I thought. And we’re going to sink or swim in like
manner.
A
cursory glance of human history reveals endless conflict, sorrow, and
tragedy. Our preoccupation with personal ambition typically results
in conflict and struggle. These hallmarks of the ego practically
blind us to the real world of love and benevolence, which is, of
course, a reflection on Earth of the kingdom of Heaven. The
magnificent and compellingly attractive teachings of Jesus Christ
illumine our paths and reveal this higher dimension if we allow him
to rule in our hearts and minds. For what reason have we been placed
on Earth? What is the true meaning of love? How can it be defined? In
truth it certainly bears no resemblance to “love” as portrayed in
popular culture!
World
conditions are deteriorating at an alarming rate. Worrisome
environmental degradation, stunning disregard for the sanctity of
live, and the shocking results of a culture of greed and violence are
daily news items. Into this dark and seemingly hopeless situation has
come a Savior. All across the globe, those who have forgotten not
their divine heritage are being called upon to follow in Jesus’
footsteps and to be, as it were, the saviors of the world. Let us
gladly exchange illusions of grandiosity and specialness for God’s
truth, and willingly allow the Holy Spirit and Jesus to be our sole,
unified Guide. “This is my Son, my Chosen; listen to him!” (Luke
9:35).
And
so, what shall our relationship to life be? This question merely
scratches the surface of this topic and is intended to be a
springboard for personal reflection and corporate discussion. Let us
never forget that as one sees a brother or sister, one sees oneself.
In him or her one finds oneself or loses oneself.
Most
sincerely, Doug Dykstra
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