Consider the Source

Readings: Proverbs 9:1-10, I John 3:13-18, Luke 14:15-24


Growing up, when I would hear something that was kind of odd, I'd go to my trusted filters--my mom and dad. Nine times out of ten, their response would be the same..."Consider the source." 


Good advice.


Our daily journeys seem to be more bombarded than ever with information--considering the source still rings true as a good piece of advice. It is, in fact, ageless.


It's been used all throughout the Bible to help guide us on our paths.


In Proverbs, we learn that there can be two different "sources" to consider--the negative and miserable sources that carry the darkness in life, and the way of light and wisdom. 


When we, through a kind word or deed, come upon someone who is walking in the negative field of darkness we may find ourselves facing some push-back as is written in chapter 9: "Whoever corrects a mocker invites insult; whoever rebukes a wicked man incurs abuse" and "Do not rebuke a mocker or he will hate you" (verses 7 and 8). We have to consider the source of the anger and the hatred; it's not meant particularly for us in most instances--it's been brought about by some other decision or development in that person's life. If we get a negative response, there's no need to recoil and become negative and dark ourselves. It's a time to issue a quiet prayer for that person to find peace in all the turmoil and let them know gently that we're there for them, regardless. Our seeking out others to share the light of perfect love is not about us--it's about sharing.


I John 3:13 very clearly states: "Do not be surprised, my brothers, if the world hates you." Children of the Light are children of eternity; children of the darkness are children who are limited by the boundary of earth and a short time span on it. As children of the Light, we are given clear guidance from our perfect source, Jesus Christ. And wonderful guidance we have: "This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers"(3:16). Unquestioning, unyielding love. "Dear children, let us not love with words or tongue but with actions and in truth" (3:18). "If anyone has material possessions and sees his brother in need but has no pity on him, how can the love of God be in him?" (3:17) It's spelled out clearly for us--we can bring others to the Light by practicing what we are directed to do. "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding" (Proverbs 9:10).


A beautiful source to consider throughout our time here on earth.


Luke 4 is the parable of the prepared feast with invitations sent out to a chosen few. Upon receiving the invitation, there is great excitement and anticipation. However, once the date finally arrives, life has gotten in the way. The mundane has elbowed its way into the designated time of the feast. The invited have too much to do or don't feel like going. The parable tells us clearly to consider the source of the invitation. Our loving God invites us to the eternal feast; turning down the invitation is the worst case of bad judgement we'll ever have. 


Throughout life, consider the source...


Peace be with you.