Tuesday, November 4, 2008

Jesus replied, "Not everyone can accept this word, but only those to whom it has been given. For some are eunuchs because they were born that way; others were made that way by men; and others have made themselves eunuchs because of the kingdom of heaven. The one who can accept this should accept it." (Matthew 19: 11-12)

The context is a discussion of marriage and its place in God's intention. But Jesus offers a response that might be applied more broadly.

Some are born creative, others were made that way by men, and others have become creative to advance the kingdom of heaven.

Some are born smart, some are born to power, some are born optimistic or energetic or empathetic.

With the help of family, schools, the military, labor unions, workplaces and other human institutions many find skills they did not know they had.

Some find themselves or refashion themselves for the kingdom of heaven.

The last sentence does not capture the full meaning of the Greek. Choreo, translated here as accept, is to leave oneself open, to make room for something new, literally it is cultivated ground ready to be planted.

To what are you called? For what are you intended? Open yourself to the seeds of heaven.

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