John James Audubon, a French-American artist and naturalist once remarked: “Look at that mallard as he floats on the lake; see his elevated head glittering with emerald green, his amber eyes glancing in the light! Even at this distance, he has marked you, and suspects that you bear no goodwill towards him, for he sees that you have a gun, and he has many a time been frightened by its report, or that of some other. The wary bird draws his feet under his body, springs upon then, opens his wings, and with loud quacks bids you farewell.” Revelation 22:15-17 reminds us: “Outside are the dogs and sorcerers and the sexually immoral and murderers and idolaters, and everyone who loves and practices falsehood. “I, Jesus, have sent my angel to testify to you about these things for the churches. I am the root and the descendant of David, the bright morning star.” The Spirit and the Bride say, “Come.” And let the one who hears say, “Come.” And let the one who is thirsty come; let the one who desires take the water of life without price.”
Interaction is defined as a direct involvement, communication, or possible connection between someone or something. From a beneficial perspective, it can be extremely fruitful regarding personal and professional growth, as well as for maintaining a healthy ecosystem. Fruitful interactions lead to stronger relationships, improved communication, and increased understanding, whether they be between individuals or different species. In the Biblical sense, interactions refer to the ways individuals connect with God and with each other. It encompasses both the personal relationship with the divine and the social dynamics within the community of believers. Key aspects of biblical interaction include loving one's neighbor, building up others in faith, and reaching out to those who are lost.
Apophenia is the tendency to perceive meaningful connections or patterns in random or meaningless information. Amber is considered an organic gemstone of fossilized tree resin. In the 1966 film “Gambit,” starring Michael Caine and Shirley MacLaine, amber is referred to as: “The soul of the tiger turned to stone.” This originates from Chinese folklore, which describes amber as the soul or heart of the tiger. Tigers are renowned for their physical prowess, including exceptional strength and agility. They are powerful ambush predators, known for their ability to quickly and silently pounce on prey, often taking down animals much larger than themselves. Their strength is also evident in their bite force, powerful enough to crush bones. In general, tigers and ducks are wary of each other, with tigers being a natural predator of some birds, including ducks. However, the level of wariness depends on the specific situation and environment, as well as the individual animals involved.
Sometimes interactions can emerge from the unlikeliest of situations. One would usually expect ducks to be extremely cautious of tigers. However, ducks can be linked to tigers in a humorous and surprising way. One example quoted involves a wild duck playing a game of tag with a Sumatran tiger in a pool at a wildlife park. The duck would dive underwater and reappear on the other side, seemingly confusing the tiger. This playful interaction highlights the unexpected connection between these two animals, suggesting that even predators and prey can share playful moments.
Such is the fruitfulness of interactions. Interactions are typically good for well-being and overall health. Social interaction helps build relationships, develop empathy, and improve communication and language skills, especially in children. Positive interactions can also boost mental and physical health by reducing stress, improving cognitive function, and even increasing lifespan. Isaiah 14:10-15 reminds us: “All of them will answer and say to you: ‘You too have become as weak as we! You have become like us!’ Your pomp is brought down to Sheol, the sound of your harps; maggots are laid as a bed beneath you, and worms are your covers. “How you are fallen from heaven, O Day Star, son of Dawn! How you are cut down to the ground, you who laid the nations low! You said in your heart, ‘I will ascend to heaven; above the stars of God I will set my throne on high; I will sit on the mount of assembly in the far reaches of the north; I will ascend above the heights of the clouds; I will make myself like the Most High.’ But you are brought down to Sheol, to the far reaches of the pit.”
Metaphorically speaking, interactions may be considered an essential aid in helping to make the world go round. They are an important ingredient in life and contain the common emotion of love. Love is often seen as a powerful force that drives human behavior and is central to many relationships and experiences. The phrase "Love makes the world go round" suggests that love is a primary motivator for human action and a source of meaning. Kindness is another popular interpretation, emphasizing the importance of empathy, compassion, and positive interactions for a thriving society. The phrase "Kindness makes the world go round" suggests that kindness creates positive change and fosters connections between people.
Congenial living encourages unity, not just in humans, but across the entire spectrum of the animal kingdom. Congruous interactions are a crucial element of harmonious living. They foster positive relationships, create a supportive environment, and contribute to the overall well-being of life. Harmonious interactions involve comfortable, reassuring attitudes and actions between people, and animals leading to stronger connections and a sense of peace. Why shouldn’t tigers and ducks play together? Is the feasibility of such an action considered so unrealistic? Romans 15:5-7 reminds us: “May the God of endurance and encouragement grant you to live in such harmony with one another, in accord with Christ Jesus, that together you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God.”
Amiable sustenance creates a sense of balance, well-being, and peace in all aspects of life, including relationships, physical and mental health, and daily routines. It fosters a more positive and fulfilling existence by reducing stress, improving communication, and promoting a sense of connection with oneself and others. Atul Gawande, an American scientist once remarked: “Human beings are social creatures. We are social not just in the trivial sense that we like company, and not just in the obvious sense that we each depend on others. We are social in a more elemental way: simply to exist as a normal human being requires interaction with other people.” Interactions can significantly help in living a godly life. Through interactions, individuals can receive encouragement, accountability, and guidance from others, fostering a more spiritual and fulfilling life. These interactions can also help individuals develop a deeper understanding of God's word and principles, ultimately shaping their character and actions.
Luke 6:27-36 reminds us: “But I say to you who hear, Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who abuse you. To one who strikes you on the cheek, offer the other also, and from one who takes away your cloak do not withhold your tunic either. Give to everyone who begs from you, and from one who takes away your goods do not demand them back. And as you wish that others would do to you, do so to them. “If you love those who love you, what benefit is that to you? For even sinners love those who love them. And if you do good to those who do good to you, what benefit is that to you? For even sinners do the same. And if you lend to those from whom you expect to receive, what credit is that to you? Even sinners lend to sinners, to get back the same amount. But love your enemies, and do good, and lend, expecting nothing in return, and your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High, for he is kind to the ungrateful and the evil. Be merciful, even as your Father is merciful.”
Amen.
