Tuesday, January 13, 2004
Tuesday, January 13, 2004
We know that all things work together for good for those who love God, who are
called according to his purpose.
(Romans 8.28
NRSV)
A first cousin was tested and proved to be a perfect match. The cousin, however, refused to go through with the bone marrow transplant even though there was no real danger to himself. McFall went to court and sued his cousin to compel his cooperation, but the court rules against him. Even though the court agreed that his cousin's refusal was morally reprehensible, the judge said that he could not be forced to help. Robert McFall died three weeks after the courts ruling. Thankfully, This was an isolated case, but it illustrates what happens to a society that worships at the altar of self!
The ancient Israelites, in rebuilding the wall of Jerusalem, learned the necessity of working together. Just as the Israelites learned the need for strengthening defenses at all the weak points in the wall, we should recognize the necessity for cooperating for the good of all. The Apostle Paul said: "Do not seek your own advantage, but that of the other. (I Cor. 10:24) What can that mean but that we are to cooperate with one another for mutual advantage? What can that mean but that we are to live for others in the light of the example that the Lord Jesus himself has given us? If that's what we ought to do, then let's get on with it!
God of peace, may my work, together with other Christians, bring your hope and love to many. Amen.
