Whether we’re ordering a latte, downloading music, or worshiping God, consumers demand options. But this poses a problem. Scripture and tradition tell us that formation into the likeness of Christ is not accomplished by always getting what we want. In ages past, choice was not heralded as a Christian’s right. In fact, relinquishing our choices by submitting to a spiritual mentor or community was seen as a prerequisite for growth in Christ. Shepherds guided believers through formative and corrective disciplines, most of them activities we would never choose to engage in if left to our desires.
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