De Romanum

The writings of the ancient Romans always invoke in me a sense of awe and sadness simultaneously. I am always amazed at the topics the ancients discussed are the same as today. (Ovid even mentions the hatred between mothers-in-law and daughters-in-law (Fasti II.626). Made me smile reading that one.) Sadness floods my heart when I realize yet again the strivings of man will never bring one to a right relationship with God. The comprehensive writings of philosophers will fall short of truth. The sacrifices and prayers offered in the name of piety to statues and shrines will fall on deaf ears.

I am currently reading Cicero's De Natura Deorum (On the Nature of the Gods) in which he discusses the origin of the universe and of the gods and all aspects of deity. He states:

"[T]he ruling principle of the whole of nature is contained must in the same way be the most perfect of all... the universe therefore must be divine and so must the element by which the whole strength of the universe is held together." (II.11)

While the rest of his theology was untruth, this statement is so close. He was just missing the vital piece which is Christ. He understood the ruling reason behind the universe was divine much like Christians know God to be the maker and ruler of the universe (Heb 2:10). Cicero understood the element which held together the universe must be divine as well. We know this to be Christ as Hebrews 1:3 states, "The Son is the radiance of God's glory and the exact representation of his being, sustaining all things by his powerful word."

Cicero died in 43 B.C. without knowing the truth about the salvation that comes through God to those who believe. It is heartbreaking knowing there are so many people today who are in the same boat, and it is a wakeup call to believers. We do not have the luxury of complacency. When I truly understand who God is and what Christ has done for me I cannot help but live fully for Christ in such a way that compels others to search for God and the hope He gives.

It is one thing to write firey words laced with a call to action, it is another to act upon this challenge placed before me. One response is to hide behind my words and hope others don't call me out on it, but the other is to be constantly in prayer begging God for less of me and more of Him and to be in the Word letting God's words soak into my heart and change it so when I do walk out my door I am better able to emulate God to others. Thank you God for the friends who hold me accountable to this.