Thirst for a Human Relationship

Thirst for a Human Relationship

 

"Being a Christian" by Wright is divided into three parts.  The title of the first chapter is "The Echoes of a Voice," and this "echoes of a voice" is a familiar voice that we have heard somewhere before. It is something that humans were originally given by God.

The first chapter is made up of four parts: To make this world righteous (longing for righteousness), Longing for the hidden spring (spiritual longing), Made for each other (thirst for human relationships), and for the beauty of this land (joy in beauty).

Chapter 3 talks about the thirst for human relationships that we still seek, even when they seem to be failing.  Despite the high divorce rate and reports of domestic tragedies, there are couples who get married and are attracted to each other. This paradox shows that humans are not capable of living alone.

Most people who think it is easier to be alone do not want loneliness. Although we may sometimes get tired of relationships and want to be alone, most people are not like that. We know that we are made to live together, yearning for relationships and the difficulties that bring. 

Also, gender (sex differences) is incredibly important to our human lives. And yet, even in this area, it is more complicated and difficult than we imagine.

The paradox is that even the best relationships end in death.

The chapter ends as follows, "We already know that voice so well that we would recognize it if we meet its owner. It would be someone who has been fully involved in all kinds of relationships… with other human beings, with the Creator, with nature. But it would also be someone who has shared the pain of broken relationships. One of the central elements of the Christian story is to accept the paradox of laughter and tears which is deeply woven in the hearts of not only all human, but also in the heart of God."

 

Wright says, "Laughter and tears are good indicators of being human." Christians need laughter and tears, just as Jesus did.  (Pastor)