Spirit lead me
Conformity. Does that word speak positively or negatively to you? Across the ages the idea of conformity has driven people to love and conversely to hate. It has cause people to adopt good habits and succumb to deadly practices. I believe we are all created with the capacity to conform. But, what does it mean to confirm? The dictionary describes it this way: Conform (v) 1)To comply with rules, standards or law 2)(of a person) behave according to socially acceptable conventions or standards 3)be similar in form or type;agree
If, in fact, we each are capable of becoming like our surroundings then we need to take a closer look at what those are. Are you surrounded by love, peace, and acceptance? Or possibly by hate, chaos, and rejection? The Japanese have a saying, “The nail that sticks up gets hammered down.” In other words, act like other people, don’t show off, or else. As we address the idea of conformity we must admit that there can be a cost to conform and likewise a cost for not conforming. As a Christian I remember Paul addressing us in Romans 12:1-2 and encouraging us to avoid conforming to the patterns of this world. We must heed his advice. The cost for conforming to this world is separation from our Holy God. First physically then potentially eternally. But, our God has been gracious. He didn't leave us here to try and figure things out on our own. He gave us the Word. The Bible. And here our ability to conform takes on its full significance here as we use scripture to shape our thoughts, actions, and lives. Should we be prepared to conform? Yes. Should we be extra careful of what we patten ourselves after? Absolutely.
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Today we had the memorial service for my uncle. Lots of family came together to remember and rejoice over the life of Bob Latham. I put together a few words as I reflect on the day. This is for Uncle Bob, Aunt Janet, and my daddy, Kelly. We miss you all. I remembered you today. In sunflowers and sunsets. In the smiles of loved ones and the laughter of a child. I remembered you today in the memories of fun times, the ones that we shared in days not long gone by. I remembered your smile and the kindness you shared. I remembered how you calmed my fears when I was scared. I remembered wanting to make you proud and how i wanted your eyes to find me in a crowd so you would nod and I would know I was found. I remembered times when we struggled and now they seem so far removed and if I could redeem that time I would stand closely and hug you and say that I am sorry and then we could laugh and pass the time. I remembered you today and I am so glad that you were mine. |
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