Early in our journey through this time, we listened to a rather wonderful teaching by English pastor Paul Scanlon. In this teaching he spoke about the habit of God of giving you a glimpse of something about your life, & then drawing you to a higher place before he takes you too far into that next step. Well, my wife & I independent of one another both saw something of the next step in our lives. We believe that God is drawing us to a higher place so that we will be equipped & ready to respond when the full revelation of this purpose comes to pass. For me this has meant getting to the place that Dr Meyer suggests. It has been a gradual process of becoming still, watching, listening for “that still small voice” or “gentle whisper” (1 Kings 19: 12). Here’s a key for you; you can’t hear that gentle whisper in a room full of noise!! (more…)
If you happened to watch the film “Gladiator” there was a scene that took place quite early in the film that for most people would have passed without much fanfare. It involves the Roman Emperor Marcus Aurelius, played by Richard Harris, discussing the state of the empire with his favourite General “Maximus”, played by our very own Russell Crowe. The emperor exhorts Maximus to speak freely & Maximus duly responds. The relationship transforms from that of Ruler & Soldier to one of friends. Towards the end of the discussion Marcus Aurelius says “There is one more duty I would have you perform” (paraphrasing here) & the reaction of Maximus at this point is what intrigues me about this scene. He goes from intimate friend to, once the request is given by his emperor, immediately assuming the posture of soldier; coming to attention, hands clasped behind his back and saying “What would you have me do Caesar?” Now, this is a violent film & I am writing this article to neither condemn nor condone the merits of the film. If you will indulge me for a moment, I think that this little byplay between Maximus & the Emperor is a metaphor for all disciples. Read on if you dare. (more…)
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