Omphaloskepsis
I do not like to pit the generations in opposition against each other, unless it is absolutely humorous. Every generation has it’s defining moment, it’s cultural icons, it’s collective angst: the things other generations compare to their own: “back in my day…” I had the opportunity recently to sit in on two different conversations of late 20’s – early 30’s aged groups of men. One group definitely secular, one group definitely Christian. Both groups had similar stories, thoughts, concerns, sense of humor, comradery, questions about life, love, family — all things that impact all people in every generation. Both groups are heavily influenced by “post modern” philosophy. This influence is not a deep view of philosophy but looks more like a “pop psychology” post modern philosophy. There is much “deconstruction” prevalent in this stream of thought, however, there is little reconstruction present: they are aware and can analyze problems, but are at a loss for solutions.
The secular group tends towards a “nihilism” worldview, and reliance on self. The Christian group, not surprisingly, has a Christian worldview; they also have a distinct reliance on self. It was fascinating to listen to both groups. Being several generations removed, I recognized thought patterns that I had at that age. I just smiled. A friend of mine quipped, “Philosophy is a young man’s game and an old man’s sport.” This struck me as quite a profound statement, if you unpack it properly. Baseball on a playground is a game. Baseball in a stadium is a sport.
The epistle reading for this coming Sunday is St Paul’s instruction to young Timothy on how to play the sport:
You then, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. Entrust the things you heard from me, in the presence of many witnesses, to faithful men who will also be able to teach others.
Share hardships as a good soldier of Christ Jesus. No one serving as a soldier gets entangled in the affairs of everyday life. If he does, he will not please the one who enlisted him. Also, if someone competes as an athlete, he does not receive a crown unless he competes according to the rules. The hardworking farmer should receive a share of the crops first. Think about what I am saying, because the Lord will give you understanding in everything.
Remember Jesus Christ, risen from the dead, a descendant of David, in accordance with my gospel, for which I am suffering, even to the point of being chained like a criminal. But the word of God is not chained. For this reason I endure all things for the sake of the elect, so that they also may obtain the salvation that is in Christ Jesus, along with eternal glory. This saying is trustworthy:
Indeed, if we have died with him, we will also live with him;
If we endure, we will also reign with him;
If we deny him, he will also deny us;
If we are faithless, he remains faithful,
because he cannot deny himself.
From <https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Timothy+2&version=EHV>
Sit in on a conversation of an other generation. Be part of the game.
Trust the Promises
Steve Skiver