Sand Castles

I am in the business of change.  I often find myself changing things, working to find the extra edge, even when things are going well.  Everything, actually anything, could and can be better.  Most people don’t see life this way.  Change is something to be feared.  Change must be resisted, discouraged, and avoided.  Peace, tranquility, and smooth sailing are desired about everything else.
 
The dynamic of mixing those not wanting change with those that do is problematic.  They have different languages, cultures, and attitudes.  One is moving forward, taking on challenges and unknowns.  The other is trying to stay the course.  I often find the latter is in retreat, though everyone spends lots of energy and time defending the process, justifying the status quo, and making the case that they are moving forward. 
 
I find myself getting critical and then looking in the mirror.  I’m not sure I am that different when it comes to God.  If I look at the reality of the day to day, I find “if the wicked are shown grace, they don't seem to get it.  In the land of right living, they persist in wrong living, blind to the splendor of God.”  (Isaiah 26.10)  Candidly I fall into this camp far more than I care to admit.
 
There is an alternative.  Instead of treating God like a sand castle – something to be built when the timing is good only to let it fail later on – perhaps it is time to work on something permanent.  Mercy can be a way of living, not just an act of convenience.  Acceptance can be a lifestyle, not something I give when I am wearing my best.  Compassion can be my personality, not a description of a mood.
 
The world is full of people talking, posturing, and positioning.  Imagine one where silence on this rules.  Everything flows from commitment, values, and priorities.  Nothing need be said, everything flows from our actions, lives, and heart.  This is a world of incredible castles, lasting through good times and bad, friends and enemies.  It can be ours.