Thursday, August 5, 2010

"Common Ground"

Dorenda Richardson White
Dorenda Richardson WhiteAugust 5, 2010 at 6:43pm
Subject: "Common Ground"
"Common Ground"
August 2010
By: JoAnn Dalgard


When you find yourself displaced
Unable to stay in my apartment during a renovation project, the inconvenience became a source of inspiration. Temporarily displaced, I found myself taking stock, learning a lot of things are not really needed.
As a self-proclaimed facebook philosopher, I often post comments which I hope will generate thoughtful response. One such was, "After we walk a mile in the other fellow's shoes, perhaps we should also spend a day where he lives?" While I did not walk in my friend's shoes, I did stay where she lives.
Jesus said, "Foxes have their dens and birds of the air have nests but the Son of Man has no place to lay his head." (Luke 9:58)
Now did he mean that literally? Was Jesus "camping out" during his years of ministry?
Not big on "roughing it," I was grateful Delta had given me her spare key so I could stay in her apartment while remodeling took place. Not only did I have a place to lay my head, it was indoors and running water was available.
You can learn something about yourself when you're outside your comfort zone. With grace, you may discern the difference between what is truly needed and that which is merely wanted.
Now that the bathroom is finished, I can move back into my apartment. Some down-sizing is definitely in order.
Get out your Bible and look at Luke 9:59 - Jesus said to another man, "Follow me." Lest you think this is just about "following Jesus," consider; no matter your theology or ideology, the less "baggage" you have to tote, the easier it will be to follow.
Travel light, journey far, go in peace. Shalom.

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