It is my contention that we’re all subject to or influenced by a story line. We finished this week’s message (Our Ancient Book, Part 2) with the question: What story has become authoritative in your life? When you delve into a good book or a compelling T.V. series, don’t you catch yourself “entering” the story? Or further, consider how you DO behave differently in the real world when faced with situations similar to what you have absorbed through these stories. There are numerous story lines continually impinging upon us; the question isn’t do they influence us, but to what degree.
We might like to think that we are unaffected by the many narratives around us, but that’s only our pride talking. At least one of the many stories might even be categorized as authoritative in your life. That is, that particular story is what significantly directs your outlook, assumptions about life circumstances and others, and your attitudes and behaviors. So, again we ask, “What story is informing your mind and directing your life?
Maybe a couple examples might help: there’s a Wall Street storyline that has a strong influence right now as our economy teeters and totters. How much of that story dominates your attention, learning, actions and attitudes? As Spring explodes to life, so do the busy schedules of kids sports and other extra-curricular activities. How much of that story – the story of kid-based social-status – is authoritative in your life? Do you ever skip a game in order to take a Saturday hike or trip with the family? Or is that chapter not in the story that’s being read to you?? What about the “rugged-individual” story that permeates nearly every blockbuster movie driving most young men to make it on their own with a high-powered unattainable crucendo in the end” story? What about the “romantic love is the center of life and the thing that will bring lasting happiness” story? What’s the “dating” story? The “popularity, how do I look, what brand of purse do you carry” story? The “put on a happy face” story? The “I don’t amount to much because I’m not good at anything” story? Etc, etc, etc…
If you don’t already know it – many of the stories that make their way into our souls are based upon falsehood. That’s why it’s the best idea to allow God’s story to be the authoritative one in your life. It’s His story, it’s built upon THE truth, and it’s the best thing for your soul and your life. Finest yet, He’s written it all down for you in the most reliable Ancient Book we have. It’s a perfect book, one that has been protected by God, perfected by God, and the one truly authoritative Story that we have.
Know it; Get in it; Let it shape you – make it the story that animates your life. It’s the only one you can trust.
