History

I grew up with several teachers that loved history.  They were not just curious about the past; they reveled in battles, spoke eloquently about changes in the way societies saw themselves over time, and even in the nuances of how small, seemingly insignificantly events often involving just a few people, changes the course of everything that was to follow.  For them, history was alive!  It was magical.  It lit up their eyes.  It made their hands move in all kinds of directions.  Candidly, I did not get it.
Now I wish I could sit down with them and listen to the stories of yesterday.  Any and every kind of history would be a wonderful journey into the lives of someone who has traveled places that no longer exist in this world. I know my history and stories pale compared to those before me, yet for me I find the understanding what has happened provides insight into the present.  They also remind me of how often Hope has and is in my life.  History teaches me in ways that are compassionate, merciful, and accepting. 
It is comforting to know that we have made it to the moment at hand.  I find myself letting history teach me as no other, because I know part of the outcome in advance.  I am alive!  I am in the present.  There are choices to be made, steps to be taken, and a journey to be lived.
When I am reminded of the past, I find myself rediscovering the importance of everything in the ordinary.  We are part of a bigger picture.  Even in the past, when “in fact they did meet-Herod and Pontius Pilate with nations and peoples, even Israel itself!-met in this very city to plot against your holy [God's] Son Jesus, the One you made Messiah, to carry out the plans you long ago set in motion.”  (Acts 4.27, 28)  As bad as this was, hope emerged from what followed.
Today is yet to be written.  You are I will have opportunities to create new hope.  Seize every one.