When we think of these great inventions, we kind of marvel not only at the invention, but the inventor. I even marvel in a whole different way at the inventor of zany bands. I mean really? Ugly, cheap little bracelets that made someone, somewhere a fortune.
There are small, crazy inventions like the zany bands making millions. There are big inventions by brilliant engineers that are still not being recognized. Inventors of all kinds, both evil and pure. Crazy and brilliant. Successful and unsuccessful.
Have you ever dreamed of being a great inventor? If you had the resources to create anything, what would it be? Wouldn't it be really great to come up with some amazing invention that was life changing for all who received it? You know what, you can. Just keep reading. :)
But first, what is the greatest invention ever? Who is the inventor?
I can think of only one invention that
...has the ability to be demonstrated in countless forms.
...has the power to heal and change lives.
...And that no matter how old, or how many attempts, it never fails and never runs out!
In my estimation, the greatest inventor of all times is God and though He created the heavens, the earth, all living creatures, and so much more... His greatest invention is love.
In fact when He wanted a new way to demonstrate that love, He got inventive again and sent His son.
A couple weeks ago I read an interesting translation of a Bible verse that I cannot seem to stop thinking about. It got my head going on this whole "invent" topic and inspired me to become an inventor.
Hebrews 10:22-25 So let’s do it—full of belief, confident that we’re presentable inside and out. Let’s keep a firm grip on the promises that keep us going. He always keeps his word. Let’s see how inventive we can be in encouraging love and helping out, not avoiding worshiping together as some do but spurring each other on, especially as we see the big Day approaching.
I may not be able to invent the next greatest form of social networking, or a cure to cancer, or a double sided gun (Lofton's idea:)), but "invent ways to encourage love and help out"? THIS I can do!
I can visit the elderly lady at church that is no longer able to get out of the house. I don't need to make it something long or elaborate but I can stop by for 30 minutes to let her know I care.
I can call or send a note to someone who needs encouragement.
I can attend a benefit dinner for someone in need.
I can open my home and heart to friends and strangers.
I can choose to be patient with someone who is driving me crazy.
I can choose not to judge, but rather love!
I can take cookies to some one.
I can get on the floor and play Legos :)
I can choose to believe the best in people and therefor, treat them with honor.
I can speak words of encouragement.
I can forgive (and perhaps even forget) those things big and small that have caused a rift in a relationship and step out once again to try to mend the broken relationship.
There are countless demonstrations of love all throughout His Word, with the death of Jesus on the cross reigning at the top of that list! But I want to point out one particular passage in the Word that gives us clear, practical advice of how to demonstrate love. It is known as "the love chapter"and can be found in 1 Corinthians 13. I suggest reading the chapter in a few different versions to get an even greater understanding and to get those creative juices flowing.
Also, Galatians tells us to "be mindful of being a blessing to others". In other words, think about ways, invent ways, to show love to others.
It takes thought and perhaps even a little creativity but let's begin to invent our own ways to share God's love with those around us every single day.
Today, and every day, invent love at home.
Tomorrow and the next day, invent love for a neighbor or friend.
Next week, focus on inventing love at church and work.
Next month, invent love in your community and abroad.
Repeat!
It is my prayer that very soon, inventing love will be an everyday practice, a habit in my life, that I cannot break. A habit that impacts my family, friends, neighbors, church, community and beyond. Let's share this incredible invention with the World!
You with me? How inventive can you be?
