Seed Thought: On Whom Do We Stand?

At the Beijing Olympics, there was a powerful image on display at the Bird's Nest Stadium.

On the ground, a group of 40-50 men were walking around holding a piece of strong material above their heads. On top of this material, a single Chinese woman, decorated and glamorous, danced and moved gracefully across it.

When I saw this image, I was confused as to what it meant. Then the broadcaster came on and interpreted the image for us.

Even when one person stands out or rises above the crowd(individualism), that one person knows that they stand out because of the efforts of many, many others who have helped them to stand (community).
The Chinese portrayed very well the connectedness of their culture. It can have its drawbacks when it comes to shame and honor, but for an American who sees the pitfalls of individualism and the arrogance that often times accompanies it, it is refreshing.

So for example, when I preach as an individual, I stand on the shoulders of my parents, numerous teachers and professors, my wife, my shepherds, my friends...all who have helped me to stand. So all I should do is respond with gratitude towards the community and humility that I would get to stand out at all...not for my sake but for the sake of others.
Thank you God for the community you have given me to stand on.

Seed Quote

This is from a book review but it stuck with me thanks to my wife!

"There's little solace here, except in the accumulation of wisdom and softening of old resentments as the book's appealing, astutely drawn characters come together. We can't always save each other, but there's a kind of redemption in the fight."

Very applicable to ministry and the reconciliation of the world!