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Wednesday, June 13, 2012

THE PURSUIT

This post is part of the Christian Writer's blog chain. Our theme this month is "pursue" in honor of Father's Day and graduations. Please click on the links to the right to see what my friends have to say about this theme.

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We often think of the word "pursue" as involving a lofty endeavor. We pursue a goal, an achievement, a prize.

But the origin of the word pursue in 13th century Anglo French meant "to follow with hostile intent." Although we sometimes still use the word pursue to follow and track in order to overtake ("the kidnapper pursued his victim"), more often today the word is used to imply a higher purpose.

That original meaning though lends its sense of depth to the way we use the term pursue in the modern world.

As we pursue something of great meaning and value today, do we hold fast to the passion and depth of emotion behind our pursuit? Do we consciously allow that passion and depth of emotion to push us forward, urge us onward, following a path in order to overtake and then claim the prize?

In all areas of life, whatever we pursue, do we do so with deep intent? Do we pursue happiness to overtake it and claim it with passion? Do we do the same with everything that is important to us?

Do we, in fact, pursue life with the passion it is worthy of? Do we live each day according to the gift of grace and mercy given us by the Lord of Life? Do we follow the calling He has set out for us with the determination and persistence needed?

I confess I do not always live with passion. But I always live with direction, pursuing the life God has laid out for me--IF I FIRST seek His guidance. And then remain open to the leading of the Holy Spirit in me.

In fact, a much loftier and better thing to pursue would be to perfect the perpetual habit of seeking Him first.

PRAYER: Heavenly Father, we so want to live for you. Please show us the callings you desire for us. Open our hearts to your leading. Help us follow you as we pursue your goals for us. Let it be for your glory. Amen.

WHAT ABOUT YOU? What do you pursue with the depth of passion that hearkens to the 13th century definition? In what pursuit do you need more passion?

5 comments:

Unknown said...

Great post. Writing has always been my passion, a daily pursuit.... Although, I don't want to use the 13th century version for that- or do I? My characters would definitely agree that I, at times, go after them with hostile intent. :o)

chris said...

Good stuff Carol !!

I am passionate about life... at time too passionate and I need help keeping an even keel. I am most passionate about the people in my life... those relationships that I savor and love.

More passion needed? Hmmm, maybe overcoming the afternoon nap (but I do get up super early!!)

From Carols Quill said...

@ Nona - Ha! I love that you pursue your characters with hostile intent. They can be so pesky and elusive sometimes!

From Carols Quill said...

@ Chris - it's sometimes hard to keep the passion without the relationship feeling tense, isn't it? As for taking naps, my motto is -- Take a nap first and get it out of the way. (heh-heh)

Suzette Emilia said...

I want to have more passion about the things I love and less for things that aren't so important, if that makes any sense. ;p Thanks for sharing!