Compliance versus obedience

Compliance versus obedience

When we follow instructions to the letter, we are compliant.

When we follow the commands of our parents, mentors, or leader, we are obedient.

Obedience is more powerful than compliance. Obedience means we have a sense of ownership not only of the command but also the spirit and will of the one who gave the command. On the other hand, it is possible to disobey yet still comply (see the subreddit r/MaliciousCompliance for some examples!).

Jesus never seemed to demand blind obedience from His followers. He may comment from time to time on the lack of faith of His followers, but He would provide reasons, examples, and parables to inspire a life dedicated to virtues.

As a follower, how soul-sucking would it feel when all we have to do is comply? It is much more nourishing to obey someone who has given us reason to have trust, faith, and love.

Luke 4:16-21. The Spirit of the Lord is upon me. He has anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor…

[DAILY GOSPEL INSIGHTS AND REFLECTION FOR MANAGEMENT AND ORGANIZATION 2023-096: APRIL 6, 2023]