Joseph Gordon-Levitt, an American actor once remarked: "I don't just like one thing. Contrast is key. What do they say? Variety is the spice of life." 1 Corinthians 9:19-23 reminds us: “For though I am free from all, I have made myself a servant to all, that I might win more of them. To the Jews I became as a Jew, in order to win Jews. To those under the law I became as one under the law (though not being myself under the law) that I might win those under the law.
To those outside the law I became as one outside the law (not being outside the law of God but under the law of Christ) that I might win those outside the law. To the weak I became weak, that I might win the weak. I have become all things to all people, that by all means I might save some. I do it all for the sake of the gospel, that I may share with them in its blessings.”
An eclectic lifestyle is characterized by a broad range of influences and interests, rather than adhering to a single style or approach. It may disregard certain traditions and draw fresh inspiration from distinctive sources, embracing an assortment of ideas, objects, or experiences. This can fundamentally manifest itself in variety of scope, such as design, fashion, art, music, and even general lifestyle preferences. In many circumstances, it enfolds and transforms both the considerations of diversity and individuality, whilst retaining character and independence. It appreciates the values and unique perspectives of others whilst encouraging the enviable freedom of choice.
In Western culture, clothing and suitable footwear often adhere to conformity. Suits are generally considered the accepted standard for office attire and other formal occasions. They represent respect and professionalism. Wearing a suit with appropriate shoes, especially when considered fitting for the circumstance, can convey a sense of convention and regard for the event, or the people one interacts with. Casual wear such as a T-shirt, jeans and trainers may not be so well received by management or co-workers. In the workplace, a suit is a visual cue that an individual is serious, competent, and ready for business. It can command respect and attention, making it easier to build rapport and influence others.
In any relationship with God, the concept of God actually becoming "eclectic" could be considered a nuanced one. Eclecticism, in this context, refers to a selective approach, drawing from various sources and traditions rather than adhering to a single, established system. When discussing God in a theological sense, the question of God's "eclecticism" often explores how God interacts with diverse beliefs and practices, or how individuals might interpret God's will in a way that encompasses multiple sources.
Eclecticism is often considered a good thing by many as it can include growth. This, however, is dependent upon the concept to which it is harnessed. Whether God welcomes "eclectic" beliefs or practices depends on how that term is defined and applied. Every religion has a foundation of beliefs pertaining to their particular convictions. If "eclectic" refers to a selective approach to religious credence or practices, some religious traditions may view it as a form of syncretism or as undermining the integrity of a particular faith.
However, other customs might see a place for individual interpretation and synthesis within the broader framework, as long as core tenets and principles are respected. 1 John 2:15-17 reminds us: “Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world - the desires of the flesh and the desires of the eyes and pride of life - is not from the Father but is from the world. And the world is passing away along with its desires, but whoever does the will of God abides forever.”
A life focused on God prioritizes Him above all else, seeking to live in accordance with His will and purpose. Prayer is considered the key and traditional way to connect with God and ask His guidance. If we earnestly pursue God through prayer and obedience, trusting in His promises, then the rewards of those who faithfully seek Him will become apparent. It may be considered by some as a single, non-eclectic passion, but it can also be regarded as a life of fulfillment and satisfaction. This passion can manifest itself in a deeper love for God, a dedication to accomplish His purpose, and a heartfelt commitment to living a life aligned with His ways.
Traditions, while often considered a norm within a particular group or society, are not always universally accepted as the correct or definitive standard. They are customs devised, often through the transmission of practices, beliefs, and objects which are handed down from one generation to the next.
While some traditions are deeply ingrained and widely followed, others may be specific to a particular region, family, or subculture. Pope Francis, the former sovereign of the Vatican City State once remarked: “If the Christian is a restorationist, a legalist, if he wants everything clear and safe, then he will find nothing. Tradition and memory of the past must help us to have the courage to open up new areas to God.”
The concept of what's considered a "norm" can vary greatly depending on the context to which it is applied. Traditions need to be relevant and meaningful. The consideration of whether they should be adhered to blindly needs to be questioned or reevaluated frequently to aid progress. Eclecticism often involves selectively incorporating elements from various traditions without necessarily creating a single, unified system. While syncretism, another related concept, may involve a more complete merging of traditions into a new system, eclecticism is more about choosing or accepting what is considered valuable from different sources. Philippians 2:5-9 reminds us: “Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross. Therefore God has highly exalted him and bestowed on him the name that is above every name.”
Just as suits are considered the right attire for certain occasions, in a metaphorical sense, wearing appropriate clothing can enhance our relationship with God by fostering humility, respect, and a focus on spiritual matters, rather than worldly distractions. It can also reflect the joy and redemptive message of our salvation. By choosing clothes that align with our faith and values, we can avoid being drawn into worldly vanity and instead present ourselves in a way that honors God and our fellow believers. 1 Corinthians 15:53-57 describes the victory over death through Jesus Christ. It emphasizes that the perishable body will be clothed with immortality, and the sting of death, which is sin, is removed through Christ's sacrifice. The passage also highlights the power of sin being the law, but God gives believers victory through Christ. It states: “For this perishable body must put on the imperishable, and this mortal body must put on immortality. When the perishable puts on the imperishable, and the mortal puts on immortality, then shall come to pass the saying that is written: “Death is swallowed up in victory.” “O death, where is your victory? O death, where is your sting?” The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.”
Amen.
