On The Shoulders Of Giants:
I have been encouraged and influenced by so many over the years, both directly and indirectly.
Indeed, my upbringing was very much influenced by my pastors, the late Geoff & Winnie Bowater.1.
Sure-enough, other mentors have influenced me along the way.
To be honest, I have found inspiration and encouragement in the lives of numerous personalities within the Christian faith.
In my own eyes, many are like giants!
In certain cases – we use the word giant to honour ordinary-size folks who have achieved extraordinary things.
One precedent is the seventeenth century physicist – Sir Isaac Newton:
“If I have seen a little further,” he said, “it is by standing on the shoulders of giants.”
But you know, Newton didn’t initiate this phrase though!
In truth, it’s generally accepted that the twelfth century theologian and author John of Salisbury originally wrote:
“We are like dwarfs on the shoulders of giants, so that we can see more than they, and things at a great distance, not by virtue of any sight on our part, or any physical distinction, but because we are carried high and raised up by their giant size.”2.
Whoever the source, whenever “first mentioned” – exactly what can we learn today?
Well friends, do you see what this means – all these pioneers who blazed the way, all these veterans cheering us on?
It means we’d better get on with it.
Strip down, start running-and never quit!3.
Yep, that’s right!
Let us credit our big time successes to other “giants” who have gone before.
Let us stand on their shoulders and get to know what it means to follow God passionately.
Let us take from the experience of others, and build on it.
And remember, never underestimate the importance of bold, loving and sensible advice from a Christian mentor.
Consider this, having a mentor can help to snuff out any sense of having to deal with life’s issues on your own.
So, with God’s help, and the support of those experienced – may our shoulders some day be broad enough for others to stand on as they seek God’s will for their lives.
What a challenge, running with the giants!
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Thank you.
1 Parents of Anthony and Chris Bowater.
2 However, an earlier attribution of this phrase is to Bernard of Chartres.
3 Hebrews 12:1
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