The Plumbline

All the art of living lies in a fine mingling of letting go and holding on. (Havelock Ellis) We all must learn how to let go and hold on at almost the same time. If you have ever seen a baby learning to walk, you know the tiny fingers hold tightly to the edge of the couch with one hand, while the other is reaching out so desperate to take that first step toward something they desire. It is kind of like that for us as we follow Christ - we long for something different, just out of reach, but we are holding onto something so desperately that we won't let go in order to achieve that end.  Since you have heard about Jesus and have learned the truth that comes from him, throw off your old sinful nature and your former way of life, which is corrupted by lust and deception. Instead, let the Spirit renew your thoughts and attitudes. Put on your new nature, created to be like God—truly righteous and holy. (Ephesians 4:21-24) We 'hear' truth, want to really reach out and take hold o...

Just outside hospitals and stores, you often find a sloped ramp which assists those coming in from the parking lot with walkers and wheelchairs to gradually transition onto the sidewalk without much effort. This area is usually painted a bright neon yellow. Why? I think it is to call your attention to the ramp just in case you need the little bit of "extra help" making the transition, but it is also to call your attention to the "change in elevation" for those who are walking along with or without assistive devices. The neon color helps to draw the eye to the area - in hopes one will be conscious of the transition which is occurring in that spot. I wonder if God has any such "neon" warnings for us as we make transitions with him in the spiritual sense - navigating from one point to another? The neon color of the sidewalk does more than point out the path for the one walking, but it also marks the potential of falling for those who don't heed its ...