Consistency

The world is full of contradictions.  Some talk of feeding the poor while dining at banquets with overflowing tables of food.  Others pontificate about teamwork while stabbing a colleague when they do not seem to be looking; easily forgetting that the pain will be felt regardless.  Rhetoric flows while any links to personal choices, actions, and decisions remains illusive.  Contradictions abound in every situation, set of relationships, and type of institutions. 
 
Yet there are moments when everything defies the norm; albeit usually only for short lengths of time.  A team comes together and a winning tradition is born.  Examples are found in racing, volleyball, rowing, epic battles, and even on occasion corporations.  In the moment everyone knows why things are working.  There is no question that it is due to teamwork.  The elements of harmony, leverage, and well-being permeate everyone and everything.  There is an extraordinary consistency in how well things come together!  Nothing could be sweeter, if only for a short time.
 
Consistent moments rarely last.  Winning baseball teams rarely become dynasties.  When they do it is known and recognized by even the most cynical.  Corporations which dominate rarely do so for more than a few years.  Even those at the peak of their profession rarely last for long period of time.  Something happens.
 
There is one observation that sits out in the open, begging for recognition and attention.  Have you ever noticed how a group of people that know how to be a team, work together, and build on each other is consistent in what they do?  Their approach is one filled with acceptance.  Diversity is celebrated.  Differences are explored with safety for all involved.  Compassion, not justice, ranks the highest.  Even accountability feels good.  It all centers on “the obvious.  A servant is not ranked above his master; an employee doesn't give orders to the employer.  If you understand what I'm telling you, act like it—and live a blessed life.”  (John 13.16, 17) 
 
You and I have the opportunity today to be part of God’s team.  Wonderful things come with our “yes”.