We know that all things work together for good for those who love God,
who are called according to his purpose.

Romans 8:28

Elephants, Chimps, and Dolphins. To that list you can add porpoises, parrots, whales, crows, and humans.

What do these creatures have in common? They all have purpose.

These creatures all show signs of having a purpose that is more than simple existence. They have a reason for living beyond a simple survival instinct.

Elephants raise their kids together, mourn their dead, and care for each other and other species. Dolphins, whales, and porpoises show similar traits of altruism. Chimps have empathy and pass down learned behavior from one generation to the next. So do crows and parrots. They all exhibit signs of great intelligence, and value-driven lives.

Oh, and then there’s humans. We do all of that too.

Clearly, there is more going on than just some aberration found in human beings. This sense of a larger purpose, a greater good, can be found in many forms of life.

Could this be proof of God?

C.S. Lewis was a devout atheist until this idea occurred to him. If humans (I would add other animals) showed moral values, where did they get them? His answer was that someone must have instilled these values. A Creator. God.

I think he’s right. Nature itself lacks inherent concepts of right and wrong. If there is good in the universe, it had to come from outside of it. To me, these are all examples of creatures who somehow have a glimmer of insight into a higher way of being. Of life with purpose.

Humans have taken this idea and run with it. Beyond simple ideas of altruism and community, many acknowledge a path of wisdom and growth and service beyond themselves.

This is what Paul talks about in Romans. He says that this valueless world becomes a place where good can manifest when we acknowledge God’s purpose for us: To work for good. Some people think this comes naturally, but I would contend it is the result of a brush with the divine.

God gave you a purpose. It’s a reflection of the One who sprang Creation into motion and called it good. It’s the choice we are offered, an invitation to a meaningful life. You have a purpose, and you are not the only one.

The next time you’re feeling aimless or pointless, go visit the zoo. Check out the parrots and the chimps and the dolphins and the elephants.

Remind yourself…

to live a porpoise driven life.

Have a great week,

Mitch