Living in an Abnormal World

Presentation1

We think of life on earth as normal. But it’s not. We get a very different perspective from Jesus. Like Klaatu–the alien ambassador in the classic sci-fi film The Day the Earth Stood Still, who has come to warn humans about their perverse and violent ways–Jesus often seems to shake his head at the sheer abnormality of this world.

Following what seems like an understandable failing on the part of his disciples to heal a boy suffering from demonic seizures, Jesus responds:

“O, you unbelieving and perverse generation! How long must I remain with you? How long must I put up with you? Bring the boy here to me.” (Matthew 17:17)

After healing the child, Jesus explains that, with even the slightest spark of real belief in God’s unlimited power, “nothing would be impossible for you.”

Apparently, beyond this world, what we deem “miraculous,” abnormal events are normal, even necessary occurrences. Trust in the power of God keeps the heavens functioning, and living in reverence for the Creator of all things allows the most powerful force in the universe, God’s love, to flow unimpeded.

We’ll never see a complete reversal of our planet’s cosmic abnormality this side of the second coming. But we can put ourselves at the vanguard by praying, as Jesus taught us to, “Our father in the heavens, may your name be revered, may your kingdom come and your will be done here on the earth as it is in heaven.” (Matthew 6:9-10).

Meanwhile, let us strive to be faith-filled ambassadors of the true normal…

In this abnormal world.

About mitchteemley

Writer, Filmmaker, Humorist, Thinker-about-stuffer
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23 Responses to Living in an Abnormal World

  1. francisashis says:

    That’s really a great post,loved reading it.I pray with you for a true normal ..world not an abnormal world.Take care.🌹🙏

  2. Abe Austin says:

    Gort, Klaatu barada nikto

  3. numrhood says:

    as the boy paths matt 42:42
    matt 6:34-35

  4. Love Alone says:

    Reblogged this on Nelson MCBS.

  5. haoyando says:

    Wish we have less of the perversity, violence, and abnormality…

  6. rwfrohlich says:

    The earth stood still for a moment when Jesus gave up His life on the cross; it quaked at the awfulness of that hour. Come quickly, Lord Jesus.

  7. Hetty Eliot says:

    We must remember, this isn’t our true home. I try to enjoy the beauties of this world, but recall that this isn’t the real kingdom.

  8. TEP336 says:

    I have no small number of theories regarding the changes Adam and Eve’s decisions wrought in our world. When things are set right, I look forward to seeing which of my theories were correct, if at all.

  9. jamfayle says:

    Thanks for pointing that out – it’s a good one! I’ve noticed other parallels between The Day The Earth Stood Still and the Gospel, but not that. Thank you.
    More about this issue can be enjoyed in C.S. Lewis’ imaginative story “Out of The Silent Planet”.

  10. jamfayle says:

    “…the true normal…”
    Well said!

  11. Debi Walter says:

    This reminds me of the classic Petra song, Not Of This World.
    Excellent conversation you’ve stirred up, Mitch. I’ve been thinking recently of how Adam and Eve were created in perfection and listened to an evil whisperer in the garden that brought death to their perfect world. In contrast, We were born into imperfection, and because of Christ‘s still small voice to us we now walk in His perfection through an evil world. One day all will be as it was meant to be. Another great song by Matt Redman, One Day. Have a great week!

  12. Hi Mitch, I am a Mohammadan and I’ve learnt that absolute faith is the only way of life. It is when you give all to God that receive every thing you need and never thought of asking for..

  13. Ann Coleman says:

    Thanks, Mitch! I needed to hear these wise words today.

  14. gpavants says:

    Hi Mitch,

    “Abby someone?” “Abby normal?” “Yes.” (I know you know that reference. But yes, we have no idea how much sin has ruined real life with God in the center. It’s like coming out of cancer or life-threatening illness.

    In Christ, Gary

  15. Blake H says:

    Thanks ffor this

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