The videoconference turned in one direction then another with each exchange. As I listened quietly I wondered if I was making a difference. I needed to know. Did I need to come at the problem a different way? Was there another approach that could be more effective? Were my ideas and thoughts taking root?
As a question was posed, a sometimes work-together, most of the time oppose colleague, gave the answer. If I had scripted his words, they would not have changed! He had embraced one stream of thoughts and ideas as if they were his original thoughts. His banter and explanations that followed told me that the details of my initiative had been embraced in a way I never imagined. In a single moment, a dark situation was filled with light. Everything was possible. Anything might happen. As I wake up reflecting on the change, I notice that nothing else has changed. The questions of how ideas are landing with others still remain. Momentum and change are still being questioned. The negatives one has observed are still present. With a singular exception, all is as it was.
I realize that there is a similar story that I often fail to see in the mirror. You and I are God’s kids; we are part of Divinity’s family. We stand with God at our side, willing to help, always present. I may not see it. Even if I do, nothing else around me may have changed. Pain is still here. Turmoil and uncertainty are still present. Chaos reigns. Then there is a magic word, but. But, we have the option of seeing that “suddenly, God, you floodlight my life; I’m blazing with glory, God’s glory!” (Psalm 18.28)
This line of sight can make a difference. Life reminds me that Hope changes everything. The negatives seem less so in the presence of Hope. The impossible seems possible, in the presence of Hope. I wonder about my priorities and values. Am I willing to define myself by Compassion? Will I let Mercy trump justice? Do I want the Light?
