Balance and Lures of Maturity 

A Greek philosopher from Alexandria named Rodan became a disciple of Jesus. He wished to harmonize his philosophy of life with Jesus’ new religious teachings. Jesus graciously received Rodan and immediately directed Nathaniel and Thomas to listen to all he had to say and tell him more about the gospel in return. One of Rodan’s topics was the lures of maturity. Rodan’s thinking was profound, immersing Nathaniel and Thomas in deep discussions. Rodan found Jesus to be a living example of his ideals in the art of living and exemplified his concept of perfect maturity.

What motivates one to embrace maturity? The youthful allure of endless adventure and carefree days eventually yields to the responsibilities that mark adulthood – careers, family, and community obligations. As we transition from the freedom of youth to the commitments of maturity, we often reflect nostalgically on the freedoms we have exchanged for adult responsibilities.

Rodan of Alexandria, a profound philosopher and follower of Jesus, engaged in deep discussions with Jesus' apostles, exploring the dynamics of human relationships and maturity. His dialogues, which extended over several days, covered various aspects of life, emphasizing the foundational role of marriage and family as the pinnacle of human relational maturity. Rodan portrayed marriage not just as a personal union but as a societal cornerstone that enhances community and cultural sophistication.

Marriage, as discussed by Rodan, is not merely a personal commitment but a social ideal that epitomizes maturity. It fosters a resilient bond between man and woman, united in purpose and devotion to each other and their offspring. While acknowledging that not all relationships follow this path, Rodan upheld marriage as humanity’s most significant relational achievement, contributing to a mature, stable society. He aligned this concept with Jesus’ teachings, which use the family as a metaphor for understanding the divine relationship between God and humanity. In striving for such ideals, we approximate the peace and maturity that Jesus envisioned for the world.

Rodan articulated that human existence is unsatisfactory when confined to material pursuits alone, echoing Jesus' teaching that "man cannot live by bread alone." True fulfillment comes from the divine spirit within us, urging us toward spiritual growth. Rodan emphasized the importance of spiritual practices like meditation and relaxation to connect with this inner spirit, facilitating a transformation that empowers and enlightens us.

By his superior posture and use of tact and tolerance, Rodan wondered if the Master had learned to avoid aggression and anger. This is frequently our first line of defense, simply to preserve our pride. The Master used the analogy that a wise man desiring entrance through a locked door would not break it down but rather would seek the key wherewith to unlock it. By fighting, both sides suffer enormously. When we witness weapons being converted into farmer’s tools or artistic instruments, we’ll know our world has matured.

Rodan saw the advantage of looking ahead to a glorious destiny, of being a valued member in a family of advanced spiritual beings all wanting to help us, and partnering with us, even becoming best friends with the God of the Universe whose Spirit dwells in our mind. Embracing such a paradigm immediately gives us a heavenly perspective and better understanding of our current, and purely temporary struggles. Allowing this spiritual vision should be incentive enough to pursue our divine goal, of doing the will of the Father, of being the best that we can be: a spiritual son or daughter of the Sovereign of the Universe.

The Master’s gospel renders a great service to the art of living and gives us every reason to pursue it, enhancing life with a supreme purpose. From a lofty vantage point, we are more relaxed, our souls unveil more of what we’ve accomplished. We commune more with our internal spirit. We are less perplexed by worry, aggravation, and annoyance. Rodan wisely warns of the pitfalls of seeking ease or falling into fanaticism.

Ultimately, Rodan highlighted the transformative potential of viewing life through a spiritual lens, encouraging a perspective that sees beyond immediate struggles to a grander cosmic destiny. This outlook fosters a deeper understanding of our place in the universe, aligning our earthly journey with our divine heritage and ultimate spiritual aspirations.