Misdirection

Magicians are legendary with their ability to misdirect.  I follow the lead every time!  It is as if I can’t help myself.  Subtle clues, obvious markers, and clear signals are accepted, processed, and tracked without the slightest hesitation.  Yet this type of misdirection is never the ultimate.  I find those who are the “innocents” often have Machiavelli riding along, as if he was prompting their every move.  Na?ve questions are anything but.  Simple responses are complex traps waiting to be sprung on those who are not on guard.  Even the attitude of listening is often a mask of scheming and deceit.
 
Cynicism is often born out of experience.  I can’t think of anything specific in the last few days which might have triggered my observation, yet the small examples are there for the reflection.  I wonder if I am also observing myself in the mirror.  Am I approaching the unknown with the same type of agenda?  Do I work to control and shape the relationships around me?  Can I truly be open and engaged?
 
I do not find many examples where people are fully and completely open to new ideas.  Even those who are “good” at it harbor a degree of a protection agenda.  The simple questions offered in response often send a clear signal of the discomfort we all feel at times.  Even after Jesus outlined how he represented Divinity there were the doubters.  “Philip said, ‘Master, show us the Father; then we'll be content.’”  (John 14.8) 
 
Metaphorically I asked the redundant question everyday.  It is as if I refuse to accept the simple offer of acceptance, guidance, and comfort given by the Spirit.  It cannot possibly be true!  My question will show the fallacy of the offer.  My uncertainty will be vindicated.  My fears will be validated. 
 
Yet the answer comes again and again.  You are my beloved.  You are my child.  You are my friend.  Everything is possible.  The world is here, ready for living.  Divinity has, is, and will continue to reach out.  No misdirection here.  What happens next rests with us.