Allies

When I dig behind the scenes, I find that the people making something work are never who I imagined.  Usually, those that took credit did little or nothing.  The real heroes were the individuals who did the right thing for the right reason even though there was no promise or hope for reward.  Until I looked, I never realized they were involved.  Friends did not act as friends.  Strangers came to my rescue for nothing other reason than it was the right thing.  On each occasion, it was inappropriate to assume they were new friends.  It is a true case of truth winning the day.
 
I am not sure if I realize who my allies are.  Do I trust those I consider as friends to stand for truth when it matters?  Am I actually always on the side of truth?  What binds those that work together?
 
I find an angry snide remark of a woman on the subway is still haunting me.  Just after I got on the train, I accidently bumped her with my computer bag (empty).  Even as I apologized and gave her more space, I heard her snarl.  Somehow, whatever or however I had crowded her, she was not happy.  Even though I was apologetic, I was not on her side.
 
Do I base my relationships on the outcomes I want in life?  Do I judge others only by my perspective?  Do I fight with others, even when I do not need to be in the war?
 
An old family thought they knew who was on their side, or not.  Cyrus, in theory, was not.  Yet history recorded God view; “I've got Cyrus on the move.  I've rolled out the red carpet before him.  He will build my city.  He will bring home my exiles.  I didn't hire him to do this.  I told him.  I, God-of-the-Angel-Armies.”  (Isaiah 45.13)  Cyrus chose to be an ally.  When someone tells, freedom is still here.  When someone chooses, freedom grows. 
 
Allies can make the difference.  Today’s dance lies is discovering who is already on your side.