The Metamorphyx Journey: Part III

Life Purpose Contemplation–Serious Business!

In turning to Life Purpose Contemplation, let’s not forget the larger context and destination of The Metamorphyx Journey. True North on our spiritual compass, in every stage of life, always points to compelling Life Purpose: Living for God’s Glory. That’s our destination although there are many switchbacks and Pivot Points that re-direct our journey.

Life Purpose Contemplation leans heavily on the human responsibility side of the Divine Sovereignty-Human Responsibility equation of life. As adopted sons and daughters of God, we are invited into the inner circle of God’s plan for our lives . . . nothing short of an active partnership in the process God uses to illuminate our life purpose pathway. In one sense, that’s not much different than the intimate coaching sessions we have with our kids as they mature, choose a career, or even a spouse!

If we honestly probe our life purpose journey, some of us will uncover a disappointing reality; the time we allocate to vacation planning supersedes any Life Purpose Contemplation by a country mile! Many of us end-up on a pathway of life that fulfills only our comfort goals, with no discernable God-honoring efforts to serve others on our planet. Regretfully, our time, talents, treasure, and relationships become inwardly focused!

In last week’s post we noted that a “hasty rush” from Life Experience to Life Change can be risky if we allow anger or frustration to drive us in the wrong direction. Sometimes, however, a quick decision is required. But let’s take note . . . wisdom and “prayed-up discernment” are spiritual commodities that can be stored . . . and then dispensed later in crisis situations.

Life Purpose Contemplation leads to measured and intentional outcomes within a life purpose context. It embraces an eternal perspective on life—but also recognizes that in this sometimes-crazy zone of planet Earth, we’ll have painful trials (John 16:33). But Life Change is a mandate, not a suggestion (Romans 12:1-2) . . . and Jesus can teach us what we need to know. (Matt 11:29)

So, what’s a Pivot Point in life? It’s typically a significant change in the trajectory of life forced (or enabled) by new information or circumstances. A Pivot Point can be a joyous event when hard work produces a new opportunity . . . or a painful entry into the unknown if you’ve been fired, lost a loved one, or overnight become a senior caretaker! Pivot Points (like GPS) “recalculate” the trajectory of life. They almost always force a Life Change decision and a new perspective. They reveal new possibilities and often beg two crucial questions: “What is God up to?” . . . and “How should I respond?” The first, you’ll recall, is anchored in God’s Sovereignty; the second in Human Responsibility. Here’s how some well-known biblical characters dealt with Pivot Points in their lives:

• In Luke 15:13, the prodigal son squandered his wealth in wild living. . . and then in desperation, came to his senses. Humbled by his waywardness, he headed home to his father. Think about it . . . is God calling you to leave something behind? 
• The famously impulsive Peter faced a dramatic Pivot Point after denying Jesus three times (Matt 26:74). When the rooster crowed, it seared into his mind the truth Jesus declared. Peter was forgiven by Jesus in his post-resurrection encounter and then became an enthusiastic gospel ambassador to first century Jews, not a deflated victim and failure. Think about it . . . is there a “rooster” in your life that should launch a new calling?
• King David, of Goliath fame might be called the king of Pivot Points! One installment was triggered by Nathan who confronted David with raw truth about Bathsheba and David’s role in her husband’s death (2 Samuel 12:7). His Response? Repentance, authorship of Psalm 51 . . . and a new spiritual awakening. Think about it . . . is there a “truth” in your life that might usher in a spiritual awakening?

But hold on! Before charging down a new corridor of life, have you had a validating chat with God? “Speak Lord!” is our plea—and it can fulfill the gritty Life Purpose Contemplation effort we undertake. Here again, we find great encouragement in God’s Word. Says the prophet Samuel before he approaches Eli with a dreaded message, “Speak, Lord for your servant is listening,” (1 Sam 3:9).

The apostle Paul, enabled by a well-aimed lightning bolt, faced a providential Pivot Point on the road to Damascus. But Paul also “listened” for a validating message from the Lord before embracing Life Change. “Who are you, Lord?” asked Paul. “I am Jesus of Nazareth whom you are persecuting . . . Arise and go into Damascus: and there you will be told what to do,” (Acts 22:7-10).

To be clear, Life Purpose Contemplation is serious spiritual business; the stakes are high! We need to respond to the spiritual indicators of a Pivot Point in life. Similarly, we should seek God’s validation of that new life pathway. If we are intentional and faithful in those pursuits, we’ll do fine in the transition from Life Experience to Life Change. In fact, we’ll also discover that we’re Living as a Life Learner . . . with our compass needle pointed at Life Purpose: Living for God’s Glory.

On the pathway . . . in the process.

Tom

“This is what the LORD says, ‘Stand at the crossroads and look; ask for the ancient paths; ask where the good way is and walk in it, and you will find rest for your souls,’” (Jeremiah 6:16)