A Knowing

So. If you haven't been involved in the past months of my life, here's the overall assessment: I'm in my second semester at a private Christian university.

And you might say, "GREAT, Nathan. You're just another sheltered, Christian guy from Colorado who defaulted to the school that would be most comfortable for you just because your parents went there back in the day and--"

And then I would disagree. Not because this school isn't comfortable, or because that description doesn't fit me... nor is it because I'm an antagonistic person. No, it's because you accused me of the "D" word. Defaulting.

But if I did that, I would be claiming that the 'fault' belongs to nobody! That is simply ridiculous. I would be in complete denial if I claimed that God was not at fault for my place in life. Oh no, He is much more than just 'at fault'. I am required to accuse him of INTENTIONALLY BLESSING me! God has knowingly done this to me, and there is no other way to go about it.

Nor did I deserve it. God has grown me more than any potential I have exhibited! I could never be this productive of my own accord, and if I had defaulted, I'd never have gone anywhere at all...

Yet, that's not what I'm going to write about. Instead, I am going to address a general weakness in the curriculum here at school:

All freshmen and transfer students are required to enroll in a Gateway class their first semester. This class gives an overview of a Christian worldview in today's society. The curriculum advocates openness to new views and attempts to cultivate a spirit that is not too quick to condemn either side of an argument. Also addressed is reasoning behind the beneficial nature of a liberal arts education for the Kingdom of God. This class also emphasizes how we can glorify the Creator even in our multi-faceted pursuit of education.

So you might say, "Nathan, this is good for--"

And once again, I would probably rudely interrupt you: "Sorry for interrupting," I would say, "But if you look at the list again, you'll notice a big hole. Something's missing."

And I would proceed to explain... this class emphasizes the glorification of God, yes, but in all of that it completely passes over the importance of actually knowing God! For example, I can glorify God by excelling and improving my musical abilities, and I glorify Him in my studies.

But I can devote all of my time to glorifying God without actually getting to know what He is saying, how I should reflect His heart, and how to trust Him. This does not develop the persevering relationship that He calls me to.

Nor is this actually glorifying to the Father that wants so much for me to know Him! No, I want to really know the Creator that - for a reason unbeknownst to me - decided to make me in His image. This is my ultimate desire: an overwhelming love for my God that overflows to those around me!

Yet, I still seek to glorify God. This is my prayer:

All of my actions, God, let them glorify your Name, but give me first the desire to know You and your heart for me!