Purpose

As the world changes

“We’re just waiting, waiting for the world to change”.

In his anthem justifying Generation X’s perceived ambivalence, John Mayer expresses what many of his cohorts believe – that the reason for their inaction is not lack of caring – it’s because they believe that with the current power structures their ability for effectiveness is minimal. So, it’s not that this age refuses to act, it’s just that they refuse to act until things change.

There may be perfectly good reasons for this position, but I’m struck by how different it is from what the generations before believed. Imagine if America never acted in War World II because they were waiting until peace was restored. Imagine if civil rights leaders never protested because they were waiting until full rights of citizenship were bestowed. Imagine if Mother Theresa never held the hand of a dying man because she was waiting for the cure for AIDS.

Right actions shouldn’t wait for circumstances to change. Right actions are correct regardless of the forces that impede them. This generation shouldn’t be waiting for the world to change. They should change it.

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Purpose Work

The Work of God

“Then they asked him, “What must we do to do the works God requires?” Jesus answered, “The work of God is this: to believe in the one he has sent.” John 6:28-29

Often times we are looking for what God wants us to do. We struggle with indecision; afraid of making the wrong move. We want to do what God wants but we can’t discern His voice. People have abandoned their faith for lack of clear direction.

What God asks us to do, however, is quite simple – believe in the One He sent. So many times we think the focus is on us – “God what should I do? Where do you want me to go?” But really the focus should be on Him. And our moment of indecision should be washed away in faith.

This is easier to write than do. It’s something I practice imperfectly at best. But, it’s nevertheless the right thing. And sometimes knowing that makes the step next even easier.

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