On most days I can see decision points coming. The drivers vary, from competition to good natured fun and even moments of facing off against pure evil. Regardless of the source, in the midst of all the rationalizing, there is a choice to be made. One must either act according to the values and priorities that he or she holds close to their hearts or they fight, ruthlessly compete, and go on the offensive to win. I naturally want to do the latter. I hope I will take the former, yet in any given moment I have no idea what choice I will make.
I am not unique. Politics echoes decisions points where compassion and mercy always seem to be taking a second seat to power. Sports figures do what is necessary, even bending and breaking the rules, to accomplish their goals. Corporate players often seem totally devoid of ethics so it is easy to predict what they are going to do. In each case the generalization is true but in any given moment it is as equally likely to be untrue. The question always loops back to the same. We all face decisions. Question is; what are we going to do when we are faced with uncertainty?
The decision point often goes from black and white to gray when we see those we know and trust going against the very values we thought we shared. Ironically it is almost too easy to compromise and believe that minor rule breaking doesn’t matter, especially when nobody is looking! Nothing could be further from the truth.
If we don’t stand up for what is right, who will? If we cannot decide to act with compassion and mercy, how can we hold anyone else accountable? If we are not true to our word, values, and priorities, is it possible to expect that others should be held to theirs?
“The Harvester isn't waiting. He's taking his pay, gathering in this grain that's ripe for eternal life. Now the Sower is arm in arm with the Harvester, triumphant.” (John 4.36)
