In the 1890s, the Norwegian explorer Fridtjof Nansen tried to measure an
extremely deep part of the Arctic Ocean. On this first try, he used his
longest measuring line, but could not reach the bottom. He wrote in his
log book, “The ocean is deeper than that.” The next day, he added
more line but still could not measure the depth. Again, he wrote in his
record book, “Deeper than that.” After several days of adding more
and more extensions, he had to leave that part of the ocean without
learning its actual depth. All he knew was that the depth was beyond
his ability to measure.
We, too, cannot plumb the depths of God’s love because our human
measuring lines are too short.
The critical question for us, then, is not: How deep is God’s love?
But: How should we respond to such incredible love which God pours out
abundantly to us?
The great opportunity and rich joy of life is to return our love to God.
Years ago, in a faraway country, lived a band of minstrels who made
their living traveling from town to town, putting on shows.
Unfortunately, times were tough, and there was little money for common
people to spend on minstrel shows. Attendance had been declining, and
the minstrels were becoming discouraged.
One afternoon, as snow began to fall, the minstrels questioned whether
enough people would venture out in such harsh conditions to merit
putting on the show. But the oldest in the group spoke up, “I know
you are discouraged. So am I. But we have a responsibility to those
who might come. We should go on with the show and provide the best
entertainment we can possibly present. It is not the fault of those who
come that others do not.”
Challenged by his words, the others agreed. Though the turnout was
small, it was hard to imagine how the minstrels could have put on a
better show.
When the small audience left, the old minstrel called the troupe
together and showed them a note which had been handed to him. “Listen
to this, my friends!” Slowly, the old minstrel read, “Thank you for
a beautiful performance; it warmed my heart.” It was signed very
simply, “Your king.”
Whatever we do in life, when it is done in love and integrity, it is our
gift back to our King.