Hurtgen column 7-6-24: Cup or saucer

The repeated line in a poem by John Moore is, “I’m drinking from my saucer, ‘Cause my cup has overflowed.” The poem’s narrator is reflecting on the richness of their life as a cup filled with family, friends and faith. Holding their wealth in a cup has caused such an overflow that they must drink from the saucer.

Apostle Paul’s letter to the Philippian church also shares how to build an overflowing life. He writes “make my joy complete.” The idea of “make” includes actions. The use of the word “joy” is a reaction. And the word “complete” expresses the idea of fullness. Expressing then that what you do towards others not only fills your life but overflows to others. There are three highlighted ways to build an overflowing and joyful life.

First, an overflowing life strives for unity rather than seeking ways to be divisive. Being united with others does not mean you have to agree on every issue or look at the world in the same way. Striving for unity is knowing that others are different than you, but you are going to work towards finding places of agreement rather than emphasizing points of difference. It is possible but not easy to get along with people whom you share radically different perspectives. Life is rich when you work towards getting along with others.

Secondly, an overflowing life looks for ways to contribute to others, not just to gain. Relationships with a “what’s in it for me” attitude are doomed to fail. Surrounding yourself with people based solely on what you can gain from them is a way to live a poor life. Joy is made complete when we give ourselves in the service and care for others.

Lastly, but certainly not finally, an overflowing life comes from taking an interest in others. Focusing on your needs, likes, and interests alone will drive others away from you. Self-centered people become isolated. People will not invest their lives in you if they feel you do not care about them. Showing concern for what others are concerned about is the simplest way to fill your life to overflow.

Living out of the overflow of life is the richest way to live. Overflow living takes work. A life of overflow requires effort, intentionality, and sacrifice. We could use a few more people who drink from saucers.

Robert Hurtgen is a husband, father, minister and writer. Read more of him at robhurtgen.wordpress.com.