FOOD FOR THOUGHT
(01/10/2010)
SQUARE
ONE
Cindy Hong
I've
been fixated on this book for several years, first seeing it in the Dallas
Seminary library. I checked it out on two separate occasions and maxed
out both renewals. Yet for most of those weeks, the book just switched
places from desk to bed, bed to desk, back and forth it went. It was one
of those books that excited me every time I looked at it, a topic close
to my heart, an author I was fascinated with. But because his depth challenged
my shallowness, I was content to just look at the book. I also rationalized
that it deserved an uninterrupted chunk of time, and since I couldn't
seem to find that, it was better to not get into it. Eventually I picked
it up and made my way through the forward and acknowledgement pages, anticipation
now heightening toward chapter one. After a few pages, overcome by the
author's insights, I had to put the book down. Days would pass until the
next reading, and by then, I forgot what was read and needed to start
over. When the 10th anniversary edition came out, I finally splurged and
got the book. I gingerly fingered the pages, gently set aside the book
jacket so it wouldn't get bent, and the same story began. False start
after false start, though this time the book could stay between the bed
and desk, no more return trips to the library. Finally two weeks ago,
tired of the game, I picked up the book again. According to the bookmark,
I had made it to the halfway point a few months before. But a few months
was also enough time to delete any data inputted, and so with a sigh,
I turned to page one again. But because it's a good book, I didn't mind
the false starts, as each start made for a quicker read, giving more time
to internalize and reflect. I also learned that it is okay to start at
the beginning, that being a beginner is a good place to be. In the beginning
God created the heavens and the earth. In the beginning was the Word,
and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. And as we begin a new
year, may we be willing to start once again at square one—remembering
our first love with Jesus Christ and reflecting on His first invitation
to us, “Follow Me.” It's a good place to be.
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