The foundations for the business case always seemed optimistic. The warning signs were there; precise details, too many numbers, and tight linkages from premise right through conclusions. One intuitively began to doubt the conclusions, however the effort that went it to building the case was a powerful testimony. I do not think the warning voices ever left, however given the overwhelming support I started to reference the details when it came to supporting initiatives.
In the past three weeks, one individual changed everything. He pronounced that the details were inflated. On occasion, the verdict was direct and to the point. The numbers were simply “wrong”.
I have no idea what the right answer is. I do know that I have doubts and reservations. If a team that invested hours working together could be wrong, who says a single individual is not equally wrong? If we are going to use the logic in this business case to draw conclusions, then where is the broader consensus?
Too often we accept testimony at face value. Even though we can touch and see evidence to the contrary, we let the other forces win out. The pattern can be found in business, individual lives, and in our spiritual communities.
I would like to suggest an alternative. “If we take human testimony at face value, how much more should we be reassured when God gives testimony as he does here, testifying concerning his Son.” (1 John 5.9) Experience the stories of compassion winning over justice. Examine the way that love reaches through the toughest barriers. Explore the power to change that is founding a sunset.
Divinity’s testimony is found in the lives that stand up in spite of evil. It can be seen in the hope filled eyes of a child that has nothing tangible to hold onto. It can be felt in the laughter of one touched by not broken by life’s cruelty.
Our confidence can rest on things that cannot be destroyed. They go by the names of compassion, mercy, and community. They see life when we choose to act.
