Job's Description of Man
The old patriarch Job depicts man as, “…a wild ass’s colt.” I agree with St. Francis of Assisi when he referred to his body as, “Brother Ass.” C.S. Lewis, in commenting on this statement, says, “Ass is right because no one in his senses can either revere or hate a donkey. It is a useful, sturdy, lazy, obstinate, patient, lovable, and infuriating beast; deserving now the stick and now a carrot; both pathetically and absurdly beautiful.”
It is interesting that Jesus rode triumphantly into Jerusalem on the back of an untamed ass’s colt. Thus we see, whether it is ourselves, a loved one, or friend, it is Christ and Christ alone Who is able to subdue our animal nature. We can display the good side of Doctor Jekyll for a time, but Mr. Hyde will always show his beastly face sooner or later. Only by yielding to the overpowering presence of Christ in our lives can our wildness be domesticated. If you don’t believe me ask the Maniac of Gadara!
“I’m not as concerned with, “The Taming of the Shrew,” as I am the taming of this saint.”~ rds
by an Aged Saint