Tuesday, March 3, 2015

From Sardonic to Joyful



An Inkling
It’s a comedy skit classic – Bob Newhart’s therapy session.  It’s funny because we’ve all struggled with behaviors we don’t want, and most of us have tried various therapeutic and self-help approaches, to no avail.  So Newhart found some easy pickings for sardonic laughs.
Has any culture at any time or place ever had more resources to change behavior?  So how are we doing?  Some of the therapeutic and self-help approaches do seem to bear some fruit.  But overall, whether it be the two word or the ten word approach, our record for changing behaviors for the better is mixed at best.
The Lord has his approach too.  Rather than rely on our will power (two words) or fear (ten words), he goes to the heart of the matter, and fixes our “wanter.”  It’s not an overnight matter (see Romans 7).  But over time, by his grace, forgiveness, healing, and transforming power, we’re changed from the inside out, so that our desires are more and more to the good. 
What a novel concept:  instead of trying to find a way to get us to stop doing what we want to do, how about changing what we want to do to the good, and then saying “go for it!”  
That’s just one part of the abundant life Jesus brings.  But it’s a good one.  And along the way our laughter moves from the sardonic to the joyful, a very good sign indeed!
Blessings,

Keith