I know an author who tells me the most fun thing in life is the creation of a character. However, contrary to popular opinion once the character is created the author does not have the freedom to have him or her do anything the author desires. Once the personality is formed the character must remain consistent for the story to be believable. Once the characters are on paper they write the story and the author along with us is often surprised at the ending.
Sometimes we think because God is God He can make us do anything He wills. He could have made the universe that way but He didn’t. Instead He created these marvelous thinking, choosing creatures we call us. We have the power to become the kind of person we desire. We can be strong if we want. However, there is a downside to being strong. If so, then you have to be willing to be responsible. Some of us choose to be weak and let others lead. When things go wrong it is not our fault. There are so many things we can be. Each has its pluses and minuses.
Each of us is an author. Each of us will stand before God and show Him what we have written. However, there is one thing we do not have to write. Hebrews 12:2 reads, “Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; . . .” If we choose Jesus will author that for us. He will be responsible for us. We can choose to author our own faith but I don’t think we would like the ending.
Written by Roger Bothwell on June 30, 2003
Spring of Life, 151 Old Farm Rd. Leominster, MA 01453