From Abram to Churchill in 5 steps or less

All across the world the masses are attending church services, and being in Canada it seems they have a church or two as well. Today, it was the Church of Christ in Gravelbourg, Saskathewan, Canada. That is a mouthful.

The sermon was an exposition in Genesis where God changes Abram's name to Abraham and tells him he will have a son at 100 years old. The sermon was really good, actually, but I will keep this blog limited to a single epiphany (I know, you're amazed I have these).

Reflect on the old adage,

"Some are born great, some achieve greatness, and others have greatness thrust upon them." -William Shakespeare

This is mostly misleading and ultimately irresponsible. The way this is phrased leads us to believe that uncontrollable factors like genetics and destiny determine a man's greatness. Whereas, the reality is, great men are defined by the difficult decisions they make in historic times. Let me elaborate.

Adolf Hitler and his deplorable holocaust presented us with a recent historical example to prove this point. Two men met this opportunity, but only one was made great by it.

Neville Chamberlin was Britan's Prime Minister from 1937-1940 and although he was welcomed with tremendous applause after the negotiation of The Munich Agreement with Hitler, he will not be remembered by anything other than his policy of appeasement and the failure it was.

Winston Churchill, on the other hand, recognized Hitler for what he was and refused to believe his lies. Many remember his inspiring speeches but his legacy began with his years of isolation as a dissenter against Chamberlin's policies.

History doesn't shine brightly upon those who intend well, but those who act well. And in order to act well, a leader must be able to protect his people from the appetite of tyrants or entities that lust for power. However, without Hitler, Churchill may not be considered an example of resilience and resolute conviction.

Likewise, we cannot expect to possess tremendous faith nor be considered truly courageous unless we face opportunities to compromise these qualities. For example, courage is defined as "mental or moral strength to venture, persevere, and withstand danger, fear, or difficulty." Also, if one does not withstand danger, fear or difficulty the negative trait of cowardice can be applied. Difficult situations present opportunities for men to choose greatness, or choose infamy.

I suppose Shakespeare should have said, "All have difficulties, some choose to act rightly and have greatness thrust upon them.