Into the Fire

Purpose: (noun)1. the object for which one strives or for which something exists; goal; aim 2. a result or effect which is intended or desired intention 3. determination; resolution 4. the matter at hand; point at issue

Meaning: (noun)1. that which is signified by something; what something represents; sense; import; 2. that which one wishes to convey 3. that which is interpreted to mean the goal; intent, or end 4. that which is felt to be the inner significance of something 5. functional value, efficacy; significance

I think we all do things with purpose and hope they elicit meaning in our lives. And although both of these definitions incorporate the word “goal”, it would seem that purpose is more associated with achieving or determining a goal or goals. Using goal in the definition of meaning adds the qualifier as “interpreted to mean”.

To find that life is purposeless or meaningless is to give up on it. And it seems in order to conclude either is to decide that what we do determines nothing in the grander scheme. We live. We die. We cease to exist.

Christians live with both purpose and meaning. Within that framework do men seek purpose perhaps more than women do? Do women seek meaning more in what they do than men? As a woman, I need what I do to mean something. Yes, it probably serves a purpose as well, but if it doesn’t serve to be meaningful, it feels like it loses something for me. And there it is, isn’t it? The word “feels”. The emotional content or the tactile word screams “female!” does it not? Purpose, goal, aim: manly words, intentions. More concrete and unemotional. Set it in motion, accomplish it. Don’t ponder its overall significance. Just do it.

Just some of my thoughts this Friday. Yours?  

Father, I know I have purpose in you, and you allowing me to accomplish things which are meaningful or in a meaningful way fulfills me. I thank you for that. Apart from you, I can do nothing. In the Name of Jesus, Amen.