Posted by
peripheral on Wednesday, September 02, 2009 6:53:00 AM
From My Perspective - - -
Indifference has several definitions and usages: “having no particular
interest or concern; apathetic not active or involved; not mattering
one way or the other; having no marked feeling for or against…” Some of
the synonyms are: “mediocre, undistinguished, uninspired, commonplace.”
Its redundant to connect indifference with that which is
inconsequential = seeing life and things as being “of little or no
importance; insignificant; trivial; illogical; irrelevant.” These words
describe one who has become detached from any or all responsibility,
and who is resistant to receiving any advice or assistance to become
involved in a positive and constructive way in matters pertaining to
life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.
Those who make this their life choice have chosen a vacuum lifestyle
rather than a vibrant and productive one. The contrast for many today
is inferred in the book, The Greatest Generation.
One source puts it into a broader context by referring to – “the Lost
Generation of the 1880s (who fought in World War I) and the Silent
Generation of the 1930s.” The Greatest Generation is a term coined by
journalist Tom Brokaw to describe the generation of Americans who grew
up during the deprivation of the Great Depression, and then went on to
fight in World War II, as well as those whose productivity within the
war's home front made a decisive material contribution to the war
effort. Some of those who survived the war then went on to build and
rebuild United States industries in the years following the war. Brokaw
observes: "this is the greatest generation any society has produced."
He argued that the men and women fought not for the fame and
recognition, but because it was the right thing to do. When they came
back they rebuilt America into a Superpower. It seems as though the
cycle has now brought us into the emergence of an Indifferent
Generation.
There are two Biblical references that come to mind in this regard. The First is in I Kings 18.
Elijah, the Prophet of God, is challenging and entering into a contest
with the Prophets of Baal. The key is in verse 21, “ Elijah went before
the people and said, How long will you waver between two opinions? If
the Lord is God, follow him; but if Baal is God, follow him. But the
people said nothing.” In one translation it states: “the people
answered him not a word.” When Elijah appeals to the gathered people in
terms of their loyalty and commitment, their silence was deafening!
They chose to be spectators rather than participants. They would rather
observe than to assist. It could’ve been cowardice – but more likely –
it was their posture of Inconsequential Indifference. The Second
reference is in Revelation 3:14-16,
“This is the message from the one who is the Amen – the faithful and
true witness, the ruler of God's creation: I know all the things you
do, that you are neither hot nor cold. I wish you were one or the
other! But since you are like lukewarm water, I will spit you out of my
mouth!” The Head of The Church – Jesus Christ – observes the behavior
of the non-committed and indifferent – and declares they are
distasteful and useless to Him. The act of expectoration is one of
consequence and judgment.
One of the idioms of the English Language allows for the phrase – “sit
on the fence”. Basically, it’s implication is: “not to take sides in a
dispute; not to make a clear choice between two possibilities. (such
as, the image of someone straddling a fence, representing indecision).”
Some of us grew up hearing the phrase: “If you stand for nothing, you
will fall for anything!” It is tremendously important to have firm
convictions in terms of what one believes. Know what the Bible teaches
and Believe it. For too long, people have operated within their
self-imposed limitation of several idioms: “don’t rock the boat”; or
“just get along with everyone”; ad nauseum. This can cause one to fall
into the state of being obsequious: “showing servile complaisance or
deference.” The synonyms are: “cringing, submissive.” Does Jesus Christ
look at you and your lifestyle choices and say: “…you are neither hot
nor cold. I wish you were one or the other!” You are here to fulfill
God’s purpose for and in your life. Be hot – and – not cold! Do it!
You’ll never regret it! Consider these things with me!