Accurate Benchmarks
bench mark: a mark on a permanent object indicating elevation and serving as a reference in topographic surveys and tidal observations
2a : a point of reference from which measurements may be made
b : something that serves as a standard by which others may be measured or judged
c : a standardized problem or test that serves as a basis for evaluation or comparison (as of computer system performance)[1]
Have you ever considered the “Benchmarks” in your life? Imagine the point of references that we use in our life every day. Every area of our life is driven by a benchmark of some kind. For example, our view of marriage is most likely based on the marriage of our parents. Our view of parenting is most likely based on the way our parents raised us. Our view of “the Church” is probably based on our understanding of the church in which we were raised. Our view of worship is based on the way we have always worshipped. The way we handle adversity, good times, sickness, etc. is a learned characteristic of our life. Our past has been very influential in forming the person that we are today.
Basically, family, friends and tradition have been our “Benchmarks”. Our lives, for the most part, are based on what we have experienced. My question is, “Where does truth fit in to my benchmarks?” How is it that people will make decisions based on what their family says and disregard the truth? How is it that one’s friend will bear more weight in decision-making than the truth? Or, how does tradition have the preeminence over truth?
Are your “Benchmarks” accurate?
Woody
[1] Merriam-Webster, I. (2003).Merriam-Webster’s collegiate dictionary. Springfield, MA: Merriam-Webster, Inc.
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