It is possible to make someone do something, but it is almost impossible to make someone do something with joy, I mention this in the context of two words which I think will be familiar to some. Teenagers and chores.

 

After indulging in the sort of rant which I used to hope I would never stoop to, and after all sorts of threats regarding pocket money I managed to get my daughter to help, it wasn't that she was particularly hostile to the idea, but just that there were so many other more interesting things to do and I actually agree with that ,but then someone has to do it.

 

It seemed to me a great analogy for why God gives us free choice. Yes the creator of the universe I am sure could make us all live as devout Christians but where is the joy in that.

How much more joy was there in heaven when Paul came gladly, when Peter realised that Jesus was the son of God ,when Matthew left his tax collecting, and what impossible things they then went on to do.

 

Not in the same league but to continue the analogy,a similar joy perhaps to the day when our teenagers come to us smiling and ask how they can help.....

"What about you?" he asked them "Who do you say that I am?"

Peter answered "You are the Messiah."

 Mark 8 vs 29