Tuesday, July 11, 2006

The Price For A Purpose Driven Life


I put the question about your choice between a dull and aimless life and a purposeful one to you in my last article. My presumption is that you would opt for a purposeful life. We would certainly encourage one another to do that if given the circumstances. However, it does not mean that a purposeful life is easy and comfortable. On the contrary, it usually costs us a lot of effort, devotion and a great price. For example, it costs Martin Luther King's own life for his calling.

The local homosexual communities are becoming more and more outspoken nowadays to fight for their rights. It is obvious that they are far from satisfaction in terms of what they are fighting for. I am sure they will not give up and they will continue to invest their effort, money and talent to reach their goal. I must state loud and clear here that I would in NO WAY endorse what they are trying to get. Indeed, the Bible is crystal clear that human homosexuality is NOT a divine design. Instead, it is a sin (Rom 1:25-28; Lev.18:22; 20:13). Despite their disobedience, the gay activists have demonstrated a determination, persistence and commitment worthy of praise as an example of their life pursuit. Regrettably, we Christians nowadays are often overcome by their perseverance and lobbying.

It is definitely NOT my intention to elaborate and discuss the complex phenomenon of homosexuality in this short article. Rather, I am using the example of the gay activists to arouse our reflections as to the price of a purpose driven life. Without a clear purpose and vision, nobody can invest properly and sufficiently in his/her life endeavors. The Apostle Paul is a typical example. Difficulties, barriers and hazards abounded throughout his effort to evangelize the gentiles. Besides the promise of a heavenly prize (2 Tim 4:7-8), God may be using similar afflictions to train us up, to humble and prove us in His eternal plan (Deut. 8:2).

Yes, we receive the grace of salvation (Eph.2:8) through faith. However, it is not exactly "free" in terms of our response and commitment to the Lord for true faith is always accompanied with heartfelt works (James 2:20). At the same time, there is always a great price and prize behind any earnest and far-reaching endeavor. So, Dear Brothers and Sisters, let's encourage one another with the Lord's word: “And let us not grow weary in well-doing, for in due season we shall reap, if we do not lose heart (Gal. 6:7 ,9)”