Gothic or Roman Missals

Gothic or Roman Missals

One of the oldest Spanish proverbs is: "Alla van leyes do quieren reyes," or "Laws go the ways that kings desire." It arose when Alfonso VI, at the beginning of the twelfth century, had to decide whether his country should use Gothic or Roman missals. The king resolved to leave the matter to chance; he threw both into the flames, saying that the one that came out unburnt should be chosen. But when the Gothic missal survived the ordeal, he threw it back into the flames and decided in favor of the Roman. From this act the proverb became popular throughout Spain.

Many people treat the will of God in just this way. They will put a choice up to God and will keep on trying until the matter turns out to suit them. Unless a person is a surrendered Christian, it is correct to say that actions follow the will of the flesh. The only way to have the will of God is to be willing to do it, and 90 percent of knowing that will consists in being willing to do it before you know it.

1. How does one become willing to do the will of God despite the outcome?

2. What does it mean to act/ follow the will of the flesh?

3. In what ways do we see this illustration work out in the story of Jonah?

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