One evening an old man told his grandson about a battle that goes on inside people. He said, “My son, the battle is between two “wolves” inside us all. One is dark or evil, it is anger, envy, jealousy, sorrow, regret, greed, arrogance, self-pity, guilt, resentment, inferiority, lies, false pride, superiority and ego. The other “wolf” is light or good. It is joy, peace, love, hope, serenity, humility, kindness, benevolence, empathy, generosity, truth, compassion and faith.” The grandson thought about it for a minute and then asked his grandfather: “Which wolf wins?”
The old man simply replied: “The one you feed”
You know how it goes. As much as we know not to feed the dark wolf, we seem all the more determined to do so. We catch ourselves over and over again, caught in acts such as anger, jealousy and self-centredness. Every time again, we find ourselves tossing another piece of meat at the wrong wolf. And you ask yourself the question: can I determine which wolf I feed?
As God’s children, we are being recreated into His image. This is an ongoing process, with the wonderful reality that the outcome is certain. The Lord, who works in us, will bring that work to completion. And whilst we confess and praise Him for His work, He also instructs us to train our minds in godliness. That is possible because of the regenerating work of the Spirit.
When we meditate on those things that are pure, just, noble and true, then we don’t have time to focus on that which is false, selfish, envious or hateful. God calls us to be active in training our minds so the focus for our life is placed on Him and His work.
Our Year 12 students completed their schooling with us this week. The message for them, and us all, is to reflect on what the Lord has given them in their education at the John Calvin Schools. And as they leave, to continue to train their brain to meditate on those things that are virtuous and are praiseworthy.
So ask yourself the question: which wolf am I feeding?
With Christian greetings,
M Plug, Principal