The Oasis - August 14, 2024
Author: Rev. Eric Dupee
August 14, 2024
In worship this coming Sunday, we will read about King Solomon from the Old Testament book of 1 Kings. In the text, God said, “Ask whatever you wish, and I’ll give it to you.” Imagine that. If God were to say the same to you, how would you respond? Would you ask for longevity, health, financial resources, happiness?
It’s one thing to think about what we want. It’s relatively easy to identify certain things that would make life better or easier. It’s another thing to think about what’s worth wanting. That requires a bit more discernment. In the book Life Worth Living: A Guide to What Matters Most, the authors recall an old Walgreens advertising slogan: “Walgreens – at the corner of happy and healthy.” These authors refer to that slogan as the “Walgreens vision” for where the good life might be found.
As I reflect on the lives of a number of the biblical characters, I think it’s interesting the things they gave up to follow Jesus. Peter left his life and his work as a fisherman on the Sea of Galilee. Legend has it, he was crucified and, at his request, he was crucified upside down, because he was not worth to die as Christ died. Paul was an influential and respected Pharisee who suffered beatings and stints in jail in order to serve Christ. I also think of the courage and dedication of Mary, the mother of Jesus, who risked much to bring Jesus into the world.
If God were to grant you whatever you wish, how would you respond? What is worth wanting?
Blessings,
Eric
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