It is hard to believe where our imaginations have taken us. We have survived decades of getting older, losing the athleticism of our youth, partially because we can still imagine running the diamond or playing in the big game. The roadblocks have vanished with new technologies. Do you want to keep up with local events in the far corner of northeast India? Imagine reading the daily paper without having to pay for it! You can if you want to. The only limits to today are the barriers that you or I build in our minds.
I never imagined today. It isn’t the technology, information overload, or even the use of media. When I was young everything we did was bounded by limitations. Today anything is possible! Looking for a fun holiday? Places that we used to only read about are now within our grasp. Have passport and a willing, adventurous spirit and you are ready to start the process. Thinking of a new life direction? What holds you back? Other than fear nothing in society is stopping the move. Even radical behavior is accepted in ways we never imagined.
Even our conversations have changed more than we realize. We paint pictures with words to help bridge the gap between today and the world we see in our minds. Others join us, willing to explore if they trust our motives and intent. Yet we still have parts of our lives that we find difficult – often nearest the place where we hold our values and priorities. Perhaps our imagination is more fearful than we realize.
Imaginations have been at work for a long time now. Even in days gone by it was a way to get to the heart of life’s questions. “Anyone who drinks the water I give will never thirst—not ever. The water I [God] give will be an artesian spring within, gushing fountains of endless life.” (John 4.14)
Do I really want to drink life deeply? Am I willing to let God shape my imagination? There are no limits to the possibilities except fear.
