History

I think out of the 60-some posts I have made on this blog, the title that seems to pop up the most often is about history. I'm actually not doing too badly in the school subject right now--I like my grade, if you really want to know--but I'm still having a lot of trouble enjoying it. I have no fascination with the subject and would just as soon leave the past behind.
However, that is impossible. History is about real people. I was talking to a friend the other day about history, and during that conversation I realized that I should be thankful that all those guys way back then did all the stuff they did so that I could be who I am today. If Edison hadn't created the lightbulb or Paul Revere hadn't made his midnight right; if Calvin hadn't taken his stand against the teachings of the Roman Catholic Church; if King John hadn't signed the Magna Carta; if Paul hadn't spread the Good News; if Christ hadn't come down to earth, died and risen again; if all of this hadn't happened and more, I wouldn't be here today. I should be thankful that I can sit at the computer with a light beaming from the ceiling (and the computer screen) with the freedom of speech so that I can write this, um, essay. I should be thankful that someone cared enough to tell everyone that the Bible is the Word of God and that Christ cared enough to give me life.
This morning's sermon was "God Has a Hand in History." Whatever has happened, whether it was two minutes ago or 3000 years ago, God knew what was happening. It was all according to His perfect plan.
The topic for the retreat that our church is hosting in March (hooray!) is the Christian Worldview of history--or something like that. Right now I'm looking forward to hearing about it. In the meantime, I will diligently study my history book and try to remember why knowing the names of Chinese guys is important--even if I will never be able to spell them.