From Dull to Divine
The glory that you have given me I have given to them, that they may be one even as we are one, I in them and you in me, that they may become perfectly one, so that the world may know that you sent me and loved them even as you loved me. (John 17:22-23)
Faith is a strange paradox. As God’s representatives, we are called to recognize how dull and lifeless humanity is apart from God. Then, we are to offer the gift of dullness to the world. (Ok, I am being a little tongue-in-cheek.) Those who have the best, most effortless life often lose sight of God. Worshiping at the altar of entertainment, leisure, and self-obsession seems so fun until God’s followers offer a more meaningful way. It is almost sad how our call is to burst the self-absorption bubble and provide a better way.
In “Why does Your life feel Dull and Empty?” Singh Bhai challenges us to face our emptiness so we can help guide others through the fearful reality of the existential pit. Only after one recognizes the false life of worldly obsessions can one experience the joy that comes with the fulfillment of divine intimacy. Bhai describes the mistaken life as “Not Having a Sense of Purpose or Meaning.” When our purpose is entertainment, life transforms from diversion to fulfillment. The more you define your purpose, the more transformative your life becomes. It can feel like God is shining down.
Bhai further warns of “Disconnection from Others.” Especially since COVID-19, our society has become increasingly disconnected instead of embracing worshiping communities that honor God and heal the pain of disconnection. God has always understood the power of connection. The meaning of Christmas extends from the desire to connect with the creation. God desired deeper intimacy with the human community. There had been silence for over 300 years, and communication was distant. So, God took the enormous leap of coming to earth as a human, part of the creation. The connection could not be more complete. At least until Jesus promised an enhanced presence in the Holy Spirit after his resurrection.
Finally, Bhai warns against “Comparing Yourself to Unrealistic Expectations.” Our God, who became a person, entered the messiness of humanity so all could be brought to newness of life. Nothing is dull about God’s message, personal commitment, or love for us. When the church becomes self-obsessed and loses its purpose, God appears unnecessary. When we focus anew on God’s sacrificial care for us, God becomes real, and our lives become worthy. Today, ponder what God did in Jesus. Soon, we will enter the Advent season. Christmas is often a time of self-obsession with gifts and the pressure of meeting needs. This divine season, ask God’s Spirit to move in and through your heart, finding the depth of God’s love for you and commitment to you.