Awe

When one looks around it is easy to be in awe.  Individuals of every description have made it.  In every measure the world uses, power, rewards, toys, status, and even respect, others have made it big!  For whatever reasons, driven by unseen forces, helped by supporters unknown, they have arrived at a pinnacle.  It is easy to find yourself standing in awe.  In these moments I find myself recalling God and Isaiah’s words to Ahaz; “Listen, calm down.  Don't be afraid.  And don't panic over these two burnt-out cases, Rezin of Aram and the son of Remaliah.  They talk big but there's nothing to them.” (Isaiah 7.4) 
 
Not everyone talks big.  This is not where my focus lies.  My attention is one my reactions.  In all the ways that count it doesn’t matter where the source of awe lies.  Life isn’t about the things the world measures.  It isn’t about power, no matter how blatant and fearful their power is.  It isn’t about rewards, monetary or otherwise.  It isn’t about the status and respect others give them, even though this touches the thirst of our souls. 
 
Life centers on our role in the community.  In this respect we all stand equal.  We have failed each other and ourselves, but this isn’t the measure we should look for.  Each has the opportunity to know they are part of a caring and loving family.  Each has the opportunity to contribute to the paths and welfare of others.  Each has the opportunity to model the values and priorities we hold dear to our hearts.  The pinnacle of success comes in simply being a contributing part of a great community.  The focus rests in being, not doing.  Living comes through sharing relationships, not exploiting.  Joy comes from the sense of awe, beauty, and greatest of all peace in being a part of something greater than one’s self. 
 
I’ve witness beauty beyond my ability to describe.  There is one thing each memory and moment holds in common.  They all center on “we” not I, “us” not me, and family not self.