Signals

We all know, or should know, the physical movement of our body speaks far more than our mouths.  The communication we convey through movement – sometimes just a twitch of the eye, shift in body weight, or variation in our stance – is extremely authentic.  Even if we try to mask our words, our bodies tell the stories.  This is especially true with the eyes and face.  The clich? of our eyes being the “gateway to our souls” isn’t far off the mark.  We are made for truth.  We tell the truth far more often than we realize.  We send signals while concurrently trying to ignore the truth we know within our souls to be relevant to the moment at hand.
 
Walking the streets of any big city and you will find stories in action.  There is no American versus British edits to the story.  What we see and experience are the cries of the hearts of our communities.  Even when the words lead one way the signals of the soul lead towards the truth.  Even as we try to control, manipulate, and encourage others in our endeavors, the community knows in its heart what is right.  Even in the midst of injustice, exploitation, and greed, the collective hearts knows what is true.
 
Sometimes it is hard to accept the signals around us because we do not want to hear.  On occasion we fight what we know is coming next because we cannot bear to think about the outcome of our current steps. 
 
Near the end of the trial of Jesus, as Jesus answered in truth the signals began to unfold.  “Pilate heard those words [and], he led Jesus outside.  He sat down at the judgment seat in the area designated Stone Court (in Hebrew, Gabbatha).” (John 19.13)  Everyone knew justice was not going to be served.  Everyone understood how fear, greed, and doubts had overcome the moment.  Everyone knew would now happen.
 
Today I want the signals of my life to be mercy, love, and compassion.  I pray those around me experience the aspirations of my heart.