Insider Knowledge

In the midst of any large community it is hard to see what is “really” going on.  At times it seems like the negatives of life are taking control of everything!  Destruction is rampant.  Evil is an uncontrollable bully.  Blood flows, sometimes far more physically than metaphorically, on the streets in which we live.  Where is beauty?  Where is love?  Where are the defenders of the faith?  Have they all gone into hiding?  Is everyone on vacation?  Are the inmates in charge?
 
In times like this I find myself walking the streets of my community, often late at night.  It’s as if I want to rediscover what drew me to this location in the first place.  Inevitably, regardless of the location – in London, Redlands, New York, or wherever life finds me, I find extraordinary beauty, examples of acceptance and mercy, and birth of new creativity.  As one takes the time, captures the experience and memory, and share one gives the world a new perspective!  People long to see the beauty that one can find in the midst of the graffiti and skyscrapers of New York.  People thirst to know the incredible sunsets, colors painted for everyone but rarely for anyone to see.  Gifts of music, art, and wonder abound in every city, community, and family.  Discover is often a choice one makes if one cares to consider its possibility.
 
At times it may seem like one is alone.  We’re not.  In truth, “they come from far-off countries, they pour in across the horizon.  It's God on the move with the weapons of his wrath, ready to destroy the whole country.” (Isaiah 13.5)  Evil is in danger!  Bullies should be on the alert!  Traitors to love are right to be afraid!
 
I realize it is easy to feel abandoned and worthless.  The awesome news, reinforced by moments of beauty, is that others are on our side, are standing for the cause, and are ready to battle.  Taking this insider knowledge is a way of embracing Hope.  It is time.  We are the difference.  We’re never alone.