Here exists a tension between maintenance and progress. Those on the maintenance side value tradition, order and appearance. Image is everything. Those on the progress side value growth, momentum and impact. Results are paramount.
1. If the area isn't clean, the oxen get sick and diseased. Progress is hampered.
2. If the area is sparkling clean but the oxen aren't fed (and thus, there are no droppings), you have a tourist attraction, a religious petting zoo* of sorts where nothing significant is getting done.
3. Keep the tension. Don't camp out on one side.
4. Prayers
- Lord, bless the "oxen" as they labor for You. Help me to be patient when they upset my clean space.
- Lord, bless the "poop-scoopers" who clean up myy mess and maintain the environment so work can continue. Help me never to look down on them.
- Lord, help me to esteem others more highly than myself.
* The analogy isn't mine.
