There are many things in life I aspire to be and do. An old friend reached out to me to make a virtual introduction to friends that will be in my neighborhood. The flood of memories that came his note took me back to times in my life where he had touched me as only a brother can. We may not be immediate relations, yet the influence that he continues to have on my heart transcends the usual barriers.
Despite a gruff exterior and ongoing distain for authority, he cares for his extended family. His compassionate approach is a surprise to his critics. His actions speak as loudly as his bark.
In the midst of hardship and uncertainty, he shares what he has. It starts with his time. What follows includes attention, listening, and a willingness to act when needed. Once you have you been touched, the memory is reinforced with an extended willingness to share life.
What you see is what you are going to get. It seems that he heard the cry across the generations; “when you proclaim his truth in everyday speech, you’re letting others in on the truth so that they can grow and be strong and experience his presence with you.” (1 Corinthians 14.3)
I aspire to do for others what he has done to me. As I look at specific points in my life, it seems as though the harder I try the more that I have failed. I have come to appreciate the strength of my Adversary. Evil in all its forms is out to destroy us. It challenges the Hope that is within, is pulls and tugs on our hearts, and it makes a mess of our relationships. His model and others remind me that the outcome is beyond my control. I have the challenge and joy of doing life’s stuff! I have the freedom to make a difference. I hold the opportunity to exercise compassion and mercy. I can do.
In clear moments as well as when we are blind, we are free to act on truth.
