Thursday, August 31, 2006

The Institutions of Man

In the last two months I have learned once again the danger of placing your faith in organizations created and operated by human beings. I have never been involved with an organization ran by dolphins or pandas...but I can tell you that you should be wary of investing too much of your emotions into the institutions of man.

The desire to belong to something bigger than yourself is natural. Unfortunately power, self-preservation, and the search for prestige are easy temptations for those who wield authority in organizational structures. Unless one's life is completely dedicated to Christ they are motivated in sometimes subtle ways by their baser natures.

It is essential to always keep your faith wholly in Christ and not in the machinery of men. Even institutions meant for noble purposes often fall prey to the sinfulness of man. It is difficult not to be swept away by group-think. It is important always to keep your mind well exercised and sharp. When serving in any organization whether a church board, school district, corporation, political party, NGO, or little league baseball team it is essential to keep focused on the humility of our Lord and Savior. Love everyone as Christ loved us. Don't let even the smallest amount of authority consume you.

As Jesus said; be as meek as lambs and shrewd as wolves. Keep your heart pure and stay above the fray. The New Testament book of Jude recounts the story of archangel Michael's dispute with Satan. Michael stayed true to his principles yet reserved Satan's judgement for God alone.

Think for yourself. You are too unique to subjugate yourself to the tyranny of the mob. Work the community of believers. Love the community of believers. But place your faith only in God. Because the institutions of man will always fail you in the end.