Everything seems to have a soul. People, groups, and institutions all have personalities. People used to think that they could manage, control, dictate, or manipulate people and institutions into a set of values and behaviors so that their “souls” would be set. Life does not work that way. Our actions mirror our soul’s real priorities and values. A group’s actions, especially when the group is not together, express the group’s personality and purpose. We are what we are. The world’s pretense cannot change this fact. However, we do not have to stay this way.
The hard question to ask, and perhaps even more difficult to accept, is what type of person are we? What value do we express when nobody is watching? Do we express priorities by our words or is it even clearer through our humor, games, and activities? Are we consistent, or merely a shell filled with new values at every turn? What do the patterns say about our dreams?
Paul has a word for us. “If you’ve got it in you, get along with everybody.” (Romans 12.18)
I find the sum of my hopes, dreams, and purpose centered in what I understand to be my heart and soul. With humbleness, I find that I often fail to live up to my purpose but that is a natural part of being human. What is key, and ultimately makes the difference for tomorrow, is what I do with my stumbling steps. Do I cover them up and deny their existence or do I turn to a place of hope, mercy, and forgiveness? Do I acknowledge my human weaknesses with an appreciation for the impact my actions have on others? Do I pretend that my actions are my own, that I am accountable to none?
The answers to these questions determine one’s heart and soul. God already knows that we are weak, often fail, and will wander away from Him again and then again. God knows this but will never give up. God’s power and our choice is the difference in what we will be tomorrow.
