A recent conversation settled in on the idea that sometimes we just have to drive a stake in the ground. To put it in other terms:
“a line in the sand”
“a red line that is not to be crossed”
“ I’ve reached my limit”
“I’m at the end of my rope”
“That is a hill I’m willing to die on”
“There is no excuse”
I have no argument that there are circumstances where it is necessary to drive a stake in the ground. The problem, as I see it, is…when or where is it appropriate to do so?
Driving a stake in the ground will always have consequences, sometimes serious or, perhaps unintended. I remember as a young teen, confronting a bully who was challenging me unfairly. I essentially drew a line in the sand, which he promptly crossed and punched me in the face. Upon reflection, I was not sure drawing a line in the sand was such a good idea.
However, that experience did not deter me in future life circumstances. The consequences of which have included damaged and/or broken relationships, lost career opportunities and other less, but important, results.
Reasons for driving a stake in the ground can range from the most honorable to the most stupid and irrational. I am reminded of a father who drove a stake in the ground when his adolescent daughter refused his request for her to mow the lawn. She had crossed the line. As a result, he has refused to speak to her for the past 3 + years. It does not take a psychologist to imagine the potential consequences of his decision.
As I have pondered driving stakes, it seems to me that the default response in our media saturated society is to drive a stake, no matter what the issue. Whether it is abortion or which essential oil to use, there is no room for margin. This is particularly true in the realm of faith/religion, which, of course, is where truth is a most critical issue and the handiest stake. In either case, stake drivers are certain of their truth.
They most relevant arena for driving stakes at this stage of my life is in my neighborhood and with my neighbors. Thinking about that narrow venue can be instructive in larger contexts. For one example, see my post (http://www.georgeezell.com/2019/05/the-depth-of-my-sin/)
Another example is a house that is in deplorable condition, an eyesore that reflects badly on the entire neighborhood. My thoughts are.. there is no excuse … something has to be done… complain to the city council… enough is enough… time to put a stake in the ground!
I know a bit about the residents, it’s a rental, and passing by late one recent evening a man who lives there was mowing the knee high grass. Appreciative of the fact that the grass was finally being mowed, what I saw was a man by his appearance had most likely worked hard at a menial job all day. His countenance betrayed his weariness. His circumstances betray the chaos in his life.
So, my response as one who loves his neighbors, is to file a complaint with the city to get something done about an unacceptable situation? To have an official notification of their violation of codes, rules, norms or whatever? Perhaps they can be fined or evicted.
I am not exactly sure what I should do, but, I have decided against those options. At this point, I can predict the thoughts and words of you readers. …yes but … followed by a whole litany of good reasons and rationalizations for driving a stake and digging in.
I do know this, if I want my rights and interest protected and I don’t give a damn about what their life and circumstances are or what insurmountable burdens, perceived or otherwise, they may have, I can drive that stake and feel righteous and right and our neighborhood will be lovely.
At this point, my conclusion is that driving stakes is an act of last resort. There is no easy answer to when and under what circumstances we should do so. I am seeking greater clarity to that answer by looking to Jesus for wisdom and understanding. I hope to report on my findings in subsequent posts. I would encourage you to join with me in that quest.