Sail on

The natural proclivity of a church is a drift toward self-preservation rather than the radical abandonment of self. Jesus’ twist on this natural, human philosophy, then, is easier preached than practiced.

Chandler, Matt; Geiger, Eric; Patterson, Josh (2013-11-26). Creature of the Word: The Jesus-Centered Church (p. 218). B&H Publishing Group. Kindle Edition.  

I think I saw this in our last Sunday School class. The teaching was on "The Art of Neighboring," specifically the boundaries we sometime must set. A lot of discussion was led, talking about the problems that are sometimes associated with reaching out to neighbors and others. A conclusion was reached (guided to?) that we must let the relationship define the boundary. Jesus was brought up toward the end, specifically the parable to the Good Samaritan.

I brought up the thought, "Shouldn't this be the relationship that defines the boundary, our relationship with God?"

I think human preservation is ingrained in us. We want to be safe. But following Jesus is not always safe from a human standpoint. It involves risk. It involves turning the other cheek. It involves obedience.

Yeah, it is easier preached than practiced.