Agency -- Of whom or what are you an agent?
Agency does not just imply free will, but also
representation and allegiance to a person (e.g. God) or entity (e.g. kingdom
of God).
I had a very interesting conversation a few weeks ago
with my step father-in-law, Ren (Susan's
husband), about the word "agency."
In the LDS context, it seems we have created a meaning almost exclusive to
the LDS world, having to do with the inherent right or ability of a person to
choose for him/herself.
Think, though, for a minute, about the definition of "agency" as
is used more commonly in the world. e.g. a government agency.
Here is the definition at dictionary.com
a ·gen ·cy (jn-s) n. pl. a ·gen ·cies
1. The condition of being in action; operation.
2. The means or mode of acting; instrumentality.
3. A business or service authorized to act for others: an
employment agency.
4. An administrative division of a government or
international body.
The definition that is most interesting by way of contrast is the third one
above. "A business or service authorized to act for others."
In other words, an agent is one who acts on behalf of another person or
entity. If you are my agent, you represent me.
Think of this definition, now, in the context of the LDS usage. We think of
"agency" in a first person, independent context. But the above
context is representative and part of a group consciousness.
Perhaps there is not a contradiction here as much as there is a lesson.
One form of freedom is to choose for oneself to do whatever one wants. This
is the general Mormon usage of that word -- my right to choose as I please.
The other form of freedom is when one becomes part of something larger,
becoming an 'agent' of that larger body. In the gospel context, this is what
becoming a son or daughter of God is about, through the adoption via the might
change of heart and the inauguration into the body of Christ. In this context,
being an "agent" is being a cell of the body of Christ -- being a
representative of the whole, though just a part.
The same could be said of the church of the Firstborn. As we become members
of that body through our walk with God, we become "agents" of that
body. Our choices are reflective of our membership in that kingdom or realm.
We do not act independently, but as part of something bigger than ourselves.
So in reality, "free agency" has many levels of manifestation.
The question should be, "of whom or what are you an agent?"
When a parent tells their child who is considering wayward behavior, and they
say, "you have your agency," they should continue on to say,
"If you choose to behave in that manner, you do not represent us."
So while the ability to choose is the greatest gift of God -- the inherent
birthright of all living things -- the choice to become a part of something
larger and more elevated is the preferred course of advancement -- thus
becoming an agent of that body; growing grace for grace until receiving a
fullness.
Perhaps God is God because he is in harmony with all things and hence is an
'agent' for all things and able to function on their behalf for the greatest
good.
Sterling
www.greaterthings.com
