Normal

“Normal” pops up to define the view on my computer. I think the programmers meant “default,” “plain,” or “everything-crunched-up-starting-in-the-left-corner.” Normal? For whom? I’d probably choose another view, like the print view, for “normal.”

Come to think of it, there are a lot of things labeled normal, that I don’t think are the norm. Stages kids go through because they’re not being corrected (pre-schoolers slapping their parents, for instance.) Teens being promiscuous (the urge is normal; the action, not so much.) Adults cheating on their taxes or stealing from work. Just because it happens doesn’t mean it’s ‘normal.’ Who’d want that kind of norm or average, anyhow?

I’d love if “normal” began with a safe, happy place for kids to grow up, where Mom and Dad loved each other and cared for their children. Work normal would mean loving our jobs, doing our best, and working hard to succeed, enjoying the challenges. Friendship normal would be kind, interactive peers who encourage, mentor, and support. Church normal would be a place where anyone could come, bringing others with them to hear, share, and grow in faith.

By those definitions, I have a pretty normal life. Although the culture around me might think otherwise. The contrast between their normal and mine is ok, though. My intent is to conform to Christ, not to let the world press me into its mold.

Read more:

*"[The king] must always keep that copy [of the law] with him and read it daily as long as he lives. That way he will learn to fear the LORD his God by obeying all the terms of these instructions and decrees. This regular reading will prevent him from becoming proud and acting as if he is above his fellow citizens. It will also prevent him from turning away from these commands in the smallest way. And it will ensure that he and his descendants will reign for many generations in Israel." Deuteronomy 17:19–20

*Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good! His faithful love endures forever. Psalm 118:1 and 118:29

*Jesus replied, "Anyone who drinks this water will soon become thirsty again. But those who drink the water I give will never be thirsty again. It becomes a fresh, bubbling spring within them, giving them eternal life." John 4:13–14 NEV