It's not about elbows!

Editor's Note: We all have thoughts — some good - some bad, but nonetheless they are thoughts. Our thoughts should be reflected upon and dealt with biblically (Rom. 12:1-3; Gal. 6:3; Phil. 3:12-17; Phil. 4:8-9; 2 Pet. 3:1, etc.). ‘Just Thinkin Out Loud' (spelling of ‘thinkin'' is purposeful) is a series of thoughts that are being made public. You may or may not agree with all of the thoughts you read in this series, but it will help all of us to discuss them — out loud. The hope of the author and editors at IIIM is that this will assist all of us to begin personal reflection upon our own thoughts and compare them with God's perspective in Holy Scripture. Readers are encouraged to use small discussion groups and/or our RPM forum for any irenic discussion(s) of these specific thoughts and others they may bring about.

But don't carmakers always put in their advertising the phrase, "plenty of elbow room?" It seems part of the American Dream is having all you want, and then some. Elbowroom is just a sign of that great American Dream. But it's not available at the movie theater.

The luxury of "elbow room" is a right, it seems. But at some points, it would appear to be not a right, but a luxury, which indeed it is. In an airliner, you have to pay for a first class or business section seat for elbowroom. When you are watching a movie the only way to guarantee elbowroom is to rent the movie.

People get too wrapped in the little things, when the bigger picture says there are much more pressing needs. That personal expression and comfort are supposed to be low priority items runs counter to the human desire. But didn't God say, "it is better to give than to receive"? Sure doesn't feel as good giving, though, or doesn't it?

It's not about elbows, really. It's about giving up personal space for the sake of people and their eternal destinies. It's about letting some things go, so someone else can just have room to live, and let them see a glimpse of heaven. It's about giving up time and energy to see that they learn about God.

Sometimes you can have elbowroom, sometimes you can't.

Tell me what you think, I'm just thinking out loud!