Seven years ago I was part of a group that worked on a vision. We hungered and thirst for more than we were getting. We knew the possibilities were many if only we could see. As we talked, explored, and argued a sense of what might be emerged.
I do not think that we were blind. We knew the political battles were real. We understood just how foreign our approach and concept was to the traditional way of responding to the opportunities. Candor, bluntness, and optimism found themselves being stirred in a cup by an eclectic group who shared a dream.
Before things could even sprout I left. I was wrapped and consumed by injustices of the day. As I followed developments from afar I found myself unable to contribute to the ongoing birth of the dream that was always close to my heart. The opposition seemed to be focused on several points and I was just one of the lighting strikes. And as time does the dream grew and became reality without the touch and engagement that I longed for.
This weekend I had the opportunity to come back and see the child growing up. I found that “good people celebrate when justice triumphs, but for the workers of evil it’s a bad day”! (Proverbs 21.15) The sense of community, purpose, and mission were integrated into the fabric of people’s lives. The joy that comes from being part of something bigger than your self with a purpose of serving was powerful and impacting. The sight was beautiful, encouraging, and inspiring.
One does not always get the opportunity to go back. In too many cases ideas and gifts are given and then lost in the sea of time. I found myself haunted by other opportunities; some taken others abandoned. What were they becoming? Was there something I could have done more? Do all children look so beautiful?
Ideas and relationships come everyday. God lays them out in the chance that we will find, water, and nurture them; all opportunities to participate in love, grace, and mercy.
