John & Steve

Just recently read two biographies back to back...one of Steve Jobs and the other of John Wesley. On the surface, it would seem they are worlds (not to mention centuries) apart. Jobs created from scratch one of the most successful technology and consumer electronics companies. Jobs has people all over the world who use his creations (including me...I'm writing this on my iPad). Wesley began as an Anglican priest and led a Christian revival across 18th century England called the Methodist movement. Using small groups and accountability, Wesley spread the Gospel message across Great Britain and even to America.

And yet, what struck me as I read about the lives of both men is that they have much in common. Both Wesley and Jobs were often difficult to be around (which meant that neither one of them had a lot of close friends). Both left behind a legacy that continues to have an impact. And both were uncommonly driven by what they perceived as their mission. Nothing got in the way of doing what they believed they were called to do.

It occurred to me that what is often lacking in our faith is that sort of drivenness—not the sort that pushes people away, but the sort that causes us to give our all to the mission we believe God has placed in our lives Perhaps the issue is bigger than that. Do we take time to figure out what our mission is, what our calling is? Do we dream about what sort of legacy we want to leave behind? What are we willing to give everything for?