26 March 2007

Feathers and Mountains

Archibald Alexander on the differences of external circumstance and living conditions between this world's rich and poor:

"Indeed, so short is the time of man's continuance upon earth, and so infinite the joys or miseries of the future world, that to make much of these little differences would be like estimating the weight of a feather, when engaged in weighing mountains."

3 comments:

ErinOrtlund said...

What does he mean by that practically? I see what he's saying, but I would hate to see a quote like that used as an excuse for an unconcern on the part of Christians for issues like poverty and hunger. What do you think?

Dane Ortlund said...

That's a good point Erin. Thanks. In context he's referring to one's own desires for mammon, not the consideration one ought to give toward helping others materially.

ErinOrtlund said...

Ah, well that makes sense! Thanks for clarifying.