Rector's letter for November Fowey News
Dear Friends
The renowned Canadian psychologist Jordan Peterson, who has inspired a generation of young men through his books and packed out lectures, recently tweeted his view of the purpose of life, that it is “finding the largest burden you can bear and bearing it.” It captures the essence of his “12 Rules for Life” which include notions of stepping up and taking responsibility.
Whilst it certainly provides a purpose, for someone who has spent much time examining and encouraging ancient wisdom, not least the Bible, it is strangely ‘burdensome’, not least because it offers little or no hope in a world that is often full of heavy loads. One tweeter responded that is was “a monstrous perspective.” We all know that there are crushing sorrows that life can serve up to us at different times. And there is the particular burden of sin that often weighs upon us as a guilty conscience. As Mark Twain said, “Man is the only animal that blushes. Or needs to.”
Peter Byrom, someone converted to Christianity through reading Richard Dawkins’ (!), replied to Peterson, “The largest burden we can beat is the weight of our own sin, so [Peterson], you’re essentially saying that the purpose of life is the complete opposite of what it says in the Bible (that Jesus carries it and sets us free from it to know God.) How did you miss that amidst all your studying?”
In fact, Jesus said, “Come to me, all who labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” (Matthew 11v28). Archbishop Thomas Cranmer included this verse as one of the scriptural promises that come after confession in the communion service in the Book of Common Prayer. And he called those promises “comfortable words” - words that bring great comfort. Why? Because we all have many burdens. We’re heavy laden. The good news is that we do not have to carry those burdens alone, especially those which are un-bearable and those which can, and will, destroy us.
The release and relief of being freed of our burdens is brilliantly captured in a scene from The Mission, staring Jeremy Irons, where Captain Medoza, riddled with guilt, is dragging his armour and sword as he struggles up a waterfall. Iron’s character, Gabriel, severs the pack from him and it falls away into the pool below.
There is a stark contrast between a stern and stoic determination to struggle on in life and the gentle, pleasant rest offered by Jesus. I know which I prefer. And I know which helps most. If you want to know more, please join us on Sunday mornings, 10am in FGSC.
with every blessing
Philip