In the past few days, I have had little time to think about anything. Appointments planned and anything but, have forced me to simply react to everything that is going on. My solutions to the conflicting demands were many. I was caught running like a lost tourist between subway stops. My Zipcar could be seen moving well in excess of the speed limit on New York’s East Side Highway. In the end, I abandoned all reasonable planning and controls.
There was something magical about letting go. It was as if New York’s best Spirit took control. I traveled from 103rd and Broadway to Fulton Street in less than eighteen minutes. I parked a car in Brooklyn and was sitting in a midtown Starbucks twenty minutes later. When I was late, I was met with flexibility.
Looking back, I would not want to repeat the experience. I am too tired to understand. My exhaustion is overwhelming. My mind is numb.
Yet, something happened. I did not realize what it was until I reflected on how Paul invested his time during a trip. “After spending a considerable time with the Antioch Christians, Paul set off again for Galatia and Phrygia, retracing his old tracks, one town after another, putting fresh heart into the disciples.” (Acts 18.23) He spent time with friends, breaking bread, and came away infused with hope.
If you asked me what happened in New York I know. I spent time with friends and came away filled with hope. I broke bread and found myself energized. I was present with them and left their presence changed.
The coming days and weeks are uncertain. Whatever I might think, I know that New York has filled me with a fresh sense of mission. I can see that what happened over the past few days can happen anywhere. The model can be repeated. The invitation is always with us.
One footnote I leave as a reminder; it does not always need to come with chaos, even if that is what it took to open me up to the possibilities.
