Character and Dignity

Louis L’Amour, author of so many wonderful western (actually historical) novels, said that western men and women possessed character and dignity.

“Wherever you see them, the men and women who went west, old now and often poor; carry themselves with pride and they possess a quiet dignity that comes from having met the worst that life can offer and survived.” (The Sackett Companion, Bantam, New York, November 1988)

Pioneers learned the hard way. A smart one took advantage of another’s previously learned skills like reading trail, skinning bear or repairing wagon wheels. They had to care about each other because their numbers were so few. Even when they didn’t get the results they wanted, they kept moving on (in their case, west). No amount of opposition made them give up.

So I ask myself (and you too!), are we made of pioneer stock? Do we have what it takes?

As Christians, do we have a mentor or accept help if necessary?

Do we care about the people around us?

Do we move toward God’s goal for us in spite of our current state?

Do we refuse to give up no matter what?

Did you shout “Yes” to every question? Then Dear Pioneer, I say to you, “Go west young man/woman. Go west!”

Hebrews 6:1-3-So come on, let's leave the preschool finger painting exercises on Christ and get on with the grand work of art. Grow up in Christ. The basic foundational truths are in place: turning your back on “salvation by self-help” and turning in trust toward God; baptismal instructions; laying on of hands; resurrection of the dead; eternal judgment. God helping us, we'll stay true to all that. But there's so much more. Let's get on with it! (MSG).

Prayer: Lord, we, your pioneers resolve to move toward you and your goal for us, with all our might. Help us. In Christ’s name. Amen.