I watch others panic and I wonder how differently I would be in the context of their lives. Would I respond to financial losses differently? How would my actions speak differently? Could my ideals stand the attack? Our lives have context. It changes our vision, how our senses react, and even colors our thinking. However, the evaluation and judgment rendered by others often ignores this. I find myself looking at others through the context of my life. My analysis and conclusions reflect a natural bias that is difficult to ignore.
I find myself looking for guides to shape my view. Three keep me focused. The first is the constant reminder echoing in my thoughts about our differences. Our diversity provides a breath and depth to our lives. Our differences can make us stronger. Even the difference in how we look at things allows our communities to see more, never less.
Second, our communities can inform and guide us. As I revel in a recent experience of another’s compassionate voice and action, I still find myself filled with peace and quiet calm. Things could have been very different. If I had responded to my initial emotions, my memories would have been of conflict and damaged relationships.
Third, our paths intersect. Our interactions may last for years, even decades, or they may last for a brief moment. The questions with each what we do with the time we have together. Will we work together or walk alone? Can we build on our differences or let them push us away? Are we willing to do something for another when we may not get something in return?
One community struggled with differences while they were called into something greater. It was an invitation they embraced willingly. When a Spirit asked them to take a step into the unknown, they trusted the greater story. “They commissioned them. In that circle of intensity and obedience, of fasting and praying, they laid hands on their heads and sent them off.” (Acts 13.3)
We, in the context of the present, are called to greatness.
