Certainties

For a decade I’ve been involved in corporate change, often radical, organizational reforming change.  As another change program moves past the stage of critical momentum, I can see the hand of people I haven’t talk to in years involved.  Because of the consistency of this experience I have come to realize how powerful and long lasting truth is.  Truth, once out in the open, has a life of its own.  It survives, thrives, and moves others.  It changes people and institutions.  It can be extinguished but only with active engagement from evil.  Truth may need defending initially but once moving with a critical mass, will have a life of its own.
 
It is the authors of truth that I really admire.  When I think back, I have been fortunate enough to know many.  They were courageous in ways that often inspired others.  They were forceful yet knew how to nurture those young and innocent.  They were resilient, often shielding the young and innocent from the wars, abuse, and personal attacks which challenged the very ideals they stood for.  As I read of other leaders, in different ages and situations, I find each holding onto a truth principle.  Their words are often gateways into truth filled ideas, values, and ways of living.  They are also invitations to explore and experience.
 
Jesus words to his change leaders to follow fit in this pattern.  He knew the truth contained in his message.  It is the heart of all serious students of life.  The harsh reality is simple that “anyone who separates from me [Jesus and these truth values] is deadwood, gathered up and thrown on the bonfire.”  (John 15.6)  This isn’t a threat.  It is simply a certainty born out of experience.
 
In each change movement there are certainties which haunt the founding members.  We know the critical elements.  Jesus did as well.  He has given us the weak point and the strength element.  If you want to champion the cause of compassion, mercy, and love, this is the gateway.  Today is an opportunity to connect, experience, and lead.