Self-centeredness

I've always thought that the greatest and in fact original sin is self-centeredness. Even in very young children I see the human condition as one where we want what we want when we want it and how we want it. Babies show this desire as well as any adult. Very early in life children learn to be manipulative and will run their world if allowed. God does not want us to live this me first lifestyle.

I used to tell parents who brought their babies to be baptized that baptism was for the forgiveness of this self-centered nature and at the same time to give us the resource of the Holy Spirit. We are given the presence of God because God is love and his desire is for us to share love with others. To be a lover as God desires us to be means to always act in the best interest of others. To put their good sometimes ahead of our own. In the picture are two lovers who completely understood that reality. Marsha was a constant example to me of a giver. She would give her time, her energy, and her resources to almost anyone who crossed her path. She did it with the most genuine desire to do good. She did this not to gain the favor of the other person but just because se knew it was right. Virginia has the same heart. She called last night because she just cares so much. I met her when she wanted to give of herself to others, and she continues to be that kind of person. God wants us to be lovers who love just because it is right. That is the unconditional love that is the very nature of our God. That is the unconditional love we possess in the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. If we are willing to give that love away it will grow in us. Lord help us all to be lovers.