I stood, looking out over the busy and evolving scene before me. Cars were going left and right, in and out, in and out of ever-changing queues, to get to their intended destinations. In their lanes, individuals were creating similar patterns. The sounds of movement echoed on the walls. I felt like I was watching a movie, not in the middle of one unfolding around me. The reflections from the glass to my right and the stone façade represented three metaphorical destinations. From named buildings to soulless boxes and the walls hiding what is within, everyone is on their way to one destination or another.
I have a choice in my destination. It is easy, natural in many ways, to be caught up in the ride and steps between where I am and somewhere, anywhere. Sometimes, my journey is laid out with clearly defined paths, boundaries, and signals. I can see my choices and understand the milestones along the way. More often, I am sailing, buffeted by winds of change and pain, driven by currents of uncertainty and doubt. As compelling as the moment can be, it is good to set aside time to mark my dream and plot an updated path from where I am to where I want to be.
Choices have consequences. As I stared into the reflection, I understood that my choice in that moment was in the stone. There was friendship, bread, and conversation waiting for my presence so they could be found. As attractive as the other destinations might be, they were not for me. In was a quiet echo of choices faced by others before me; “Christ didn’t enter the earthly version of the Holy Place; he entered the Place itself and offered himself to God as the sacrifice for our sins.” (Hebrews 9.24)
Time in thought and reflection is an investment in one’s heart and soul. My awareness alerted me to how my heart was being refilled with purpose, hope, and courage. My soul was energised, and my physical body was relaxed and alert.
And so today begins.
