My God and My Country

Patience and Passion

by Doktor Riktor Von Zhades

13 And one of the company said unto him, Master, bid my brother divide the inheritance withme. 14 And he said unto him, Man, who made me a judge, or a divider over you? 15 Wherefore he said unto them, Take heed, and beware of covetousness: for though a man have abundance, yet his life standeth not in his riches.

Luke 12:13-15

Brethren:

In the book written by John Bunyan titled “A Pilgrim’s Progress” (a reading that is suggested), the main character by name of Christian arrives at the abode of a man called the Interpreter.

Within he finds many strange things, of which one are two young fellows, boys sitting on the floor. One is named Patience, and the other Passion. As the written scene unfolds we read:

“Moreover, I saw in my dream that Interpreter again took Christian by the hand and led him into a very small room in which there sat two little children, each one on his chair. The name of the elder was Passion and the other Patience. Passion seemed to be very discontented while Patience remained calm and quiet. Then Christian asked, ‘What is the reason for Passion’s unrest?' Interpreter replied, ‘The Governor of these children would have him wait for the best things that are to be bestowed at the beginning of the next year. But he wants to have his inheritance now, while Patience is quite willing to wait.’ Then I saw a person come to Passion and bring him a bag of treasure that was immediately poured out at his feet. At this the elder child rejoiced and at the same time scornfully laughed at Patience. However, I noticed that very soon Passion’s wealth wasted away, with the result that he found himself left with nothing but rags. “

Recall also if you will the story of Esau and Jacob (Read Genesis 25:29-34), wherein the former sold away His future inheritance for the instant gratification of getting a meal. Likewise in the parable of the prodigal son (Read Luke 15:11-15) who also gave way to his desire for riches and fortune, and ended up in a pig pen destitute.

Friends; too often in this word, we find that many who are Christians, are also trying to live within this world and gratify it’s carnal desires. It may be for possessions, wealth, fame, power; perhaps a combination of all or some of them, but that desire quenches the flame of seeking the riches of the kingdom of God.

Take note of Passion, not only does he glory in his immediate receiving of wealth but he taunts Patience for not doing likewise and joys in the doing of it. Yet in the end, the joy is gone, and what is left is nothing but emptiness, and sorrow*. Now contrast that with the situation of Patience, who takes joy in the knowledge that in due time, according to the wishes of the “Governor”, (who is to be likened to our Heavenly father), waits for the race to be run, and the crown of gold to be placed upon his head; (Read James 1:12)** Ad Victorum Ire Spolia, - to the victor goes the spoils.*** Hence, his joy is from seeking first the Kingdom of God, (Read Matthew 6:33; 1 Peter 1:4), and the knowing beyond all doubt that His riches will be bestowed upon you according to His will and His timetable. 

* In a further part of the chapter about the Interpreter we find a man whose sorrow and grief is beyond repentance. This is to say that he so lusted after the things of this world that he crucified afresh our Savior, (Read Hebrews 6:4-6). It is likely to become the end case of Passion, who will most likely seek immediate riches continually.

** Beatus vir qui suffert temptationem quia cum probatus fuerit accipiet coronam vitae quam repromisit Deus diligentibus se
*** A more literal translation, from what can be gathered in various sources is: The plundering goes to he who is the victor. Admittedly this is a bit more wrong in it's intent, that is to say one would plunder from the loser, it none-the less, sums up well the end result. - Dr. RVZ