The Common Good
I need to rant a moment, go with me on it!
I’ve been thinking a lot about what the world would be like, and how we’d all be different, if everyone truly pursued the common good of one another. I’m frustrated that that notion seems so idealistic and impossible. I’m disappointed that something so easy to be understood and applied, has become so fuzzy and unpracticed in our daily relationships and living–to everyone’s detriment.
I wonder if our current condition as human beings–of falling so short, so often, from actually living for the common good of one another–disappoints God. I wonder if the cross isn’t God’s cosmic way of saying, “if you didn’t get the ‘common good thing’ yet, do you get it now?” For God, no sacrifice seems too great to ignore the common good of all.
Is it possible, we’ve unintentionally overlooked a gigantic piece of what is so central to being human, because we see it as being overly simplistic for a much too complex world?
I will stand on the soap box with you George. We have got to scream this message at the top of our lungs!
I couldn’t agree more and couldn’t be more guilty of it all in the same moment.
We’ve formed a society where we are taught to always claim our rights. George, I know you’ve heard me say that before. I believe it is more true than ever. John 10:18 “No one has taken it away from Me, but I lay it down on My own initiative.” I like to contemplate that notion. I only wish I was always motivated by the same attitude.
@George…stellar post! I wish it was that easy/prevalent/common as well…but the issue lies with our human nature aka sinful nature.
What lies between us and “the common good” is often just our own selfishness. I.E. – if I go and help this person with “X” (my time, my money, my emotions, etc…)…then “I” have to give up something of my own or something that I could get. It’s sad indeed.
Anyhow, this kind of topic/discussion needs to happen more often…kudos for bringing it up! I’m hoping for a follow up post to come (fingers crossed).