The question of message continues to play on the minds of many, mine included. I wonder if political messages have meaning. I know what the words say, but I am not sure there is truth in them. I am confused with my community’s messages. Do those speaking realize what they are saying? They are conflicting, self-serving, and superficially na?ve. I candidly do not think those involved are any of these things, so their message confuses me. What can and should I believe? Where do I look for sources of truth? Who can I trust?
I would love to say that I unconditionally trust someone, anyone. I do and yet I do not. I do not find politicians to have honorable intent, so I do not trust their words. I find that businessmen and women have agendas, so I always verify their words. Even in relationships, I overlay my fears, uncertainties, and doubts, and as a natural consequence, often find myself walking alone.
The process extends through to God. Can I trust someone that I cannot see? Even though I have seen God at work, in the lives of others as well as my own, it is easier to doubt than to believe. Do I think anything can be unconditional? I know love is, but does anyone truly love? Am I willing to trust? Community is an ideal, but life teaches me that the only one I can trust is within.
In the years after Christ, a promised of a shared transformation within was “the Message convinced both Jews and non-Jews—and not just a few, either. But the unbelieving Jews worked up a whispering campaign against Paul and Barnabas, sowing mistrust and suspicion in the minds of the people in the street.” (Acts 14.2) Could this transformation really be true? Was this really a message of good news?
In my doubt, I remember the transformation that always happens when Compassion touches my heart. In my fear, I see the wonder of Love touching others. In my uncertainty, I find myself embracing the Other – it is always here.
