chapter 3 - Journal Keeping

Hello, Companion Mustard Seed Library book readers,

In the beginning of this chapter, the author lists some things that become obstacles to us knowing who we are:

"Our modern world has a shallow view of who human beings are, and because each of us lives in this world, we are affected by it and its systems of thought. The society in which we live seems to tell us that our identity can be found in the work we produce, the things we own, the pleasure we experience, and the sexual fulfillment we find. Thus our society can easily dismiss the human rights of those chronically out of work, of the imprisoned, and of others--for example, unborn children, whom our society finds it convenient to abort and destroy, even though Jesus greatly loved those who were poor, sick, and otherwise powerless. Also, we cannot imagine ourselves living an economically simple life-style, even if that is what the Gospel teaches, but rather we become consumed with consuming. Further, we find suffering to be the most abhorrent experience of all, and we are often unwilling to endure it even when it is the kind of suffering that will enforce a value or bring spiritual growth--that is, suffering for the sake of the Gospel. When we deny ourselves the sexual pleasure that our society encourages, our society further makes it difficult for us to believe that we can still be adequate human beings, even though Jesus teaches us that our adequacy is based on our spiritual adoption by God."

These are some of the things that the author lists. Maybe you can think of other things. Can you think of other ways in which society's secular view of the world affects people's spiritual growth and the ways they choose to live? How has society affected the way in which you see yourself and do you think you have been able to reconcile that way with scripture and the Gospel? Do you think the author's list is valid or do you think it is extreme?

It's raining, happy Thursday.
God bless,
Sharon