A Long Obedience
In his fantastic book, A Long Obedience In the Same Direction, pastor and author Eugene Peterson writes about the idea of faithfulness and discipline when it comes to living the Christian life. In a very eloquent way he offers an alternative to the stereotype that so many people have about Christians, and the way we often are so "heavenly minded" we aren't any "earthly good." Peterson writes, "Hoping does not mean doing nothing. It is not fatalistic resignation. It means going about our assigned tasks, confident that God will provide the meaning and the conclusions." What Peterson captures here is too good to miss. Christian hope is grounded in action. It's very foundation is exemplified by the words of Jesus who said in John 6:38, "I have not come here to do my own will, but the will/work of the Father, who sent me." You and I have work to do, we are called to take the gifts, talents, time and treasure we've been give...