I have been pondering for a good while on the difference between the narrow road and the wide road. Or more accurately, the difference between the people who walk on those roads. Both are on a journey from one place to another (meaning they are not entirely satisfied where they are...they are looking for something else.)
One thing I have thought of is that wide road people resent being on 'a leash'. Being connected to someone who has the might and the right to tell them where to go and when to stop. Someone, other than their own inclination and ambitions, who can force that stronger will on them. What an enemy to autonomy and independence! How galling to have to be seen by others as one who submits one's will to another's design.
But narrow road people do not resent the leash. Or the shortening of the leash. It allows them to be held in closer proximity to that good Master. It allows a more regular communication. As the will is bent to follow the leash's lead, a greater joy is known by both ends of the leash, because both are moving toward a common destination.
Being on a leash also protects mankind from their own freedom. Unleashed people will be the first to tell you they are not perfect, and they do not want to be judged. I feel the same way. I am not perfect, and I do not want to be judged. Staying connected to my Masters leash protects me from judgment, and all of the hurtful sins I would commit if I didn't know His guidance.
ReplyDeleteAlthough, I would have to say being on the narrow road I do resent the leash on the occasion. I would be a liar for not saying the truth. The leash is hard. Maybe that is why people resent it more than that they lose their freedom. Possibly the question is what do they loath more, losing their freedom or seeing their imperfection? I hate admitting that I am wrong. I also hate making the same mistakes over and over again. There are days that I can't believe my Master has not leaned over and flicked me off the narrow road. I use the word flicked because I'm sure that is all it would take, just a tap, not a push or a shove or even a smack to send me sailing into the abyss.
Knowing the security in my Masters character is what draws me close. I know he won't in fact send me over the edge. Yet, there was a time when I too, like Adam, hid from God's grace. I was scared of what could be, so I hid. Maybe it is fear that keeps the unleashed from the leash.