Accounting

Life has a way of naturally holding one accountable.  I’m convinced “we”, you and or I, don’t need to get into the middle of this.  We have enough to worry about in life, why try to go over the top with the lives of others.  Sometimes accountability goes by the name of karma.  On other occasions people call it fate.  Whatever the name it goes by, we will find ourselves accountable for our life’s choices, actions, and decisions in the fullness of time.
 
Stories of accounting usually bring a sense of comfort with them.  The idea others are held a greater sense of purpose, mission, and ethics fulfills our need for a sense of fairness.  Yet there is a side to this I often find myself hiding from.  I want others to be accountable for the very things I do not, cannot, and often will not face in my own life.  I like to hold others to the highest standards while letting myself drift without any sense of perspective.  I know it’s hypocritical but it feels good!
 
In more reflective moments I wish things were different.  Imagine a world were we saw each other for what we really are; weak, fallible, and often error prone individuals struggling against insurmountable odds.  Consider a community with members who cared deeply and lovingly.  Put the two together and it is an environment filled with mercy, compassion, and truth with loved. 
 
I trust God will work things out with justice and mercy.  Without doubt, “God is sure to come from his place to punish the wrong of the people on earth.  Earth itself will point out the bloodstains; it will show where the murdered have been hidden away.”  (Isaiah 26.21)  Equally sure is God’s offer of compassion and mercy to every individual.  Justice and mercy with God go hand in hand. 
 
Today will present opportunities for justice and mercy.  God has a handle on justice; I’m going to focus on the other.  Today is an opportunity to give any and everyone the very things I need most – God’s compassionate grace.