When I think of change and everything surrounding the word, one emotion comes to mind; fear. People are scared to death when it comes to change, but not always for the obvious reasons. Traditional thought has fear founded in the ability to be successful in a new environment. Granted there is an element of this in all of us but the real fear is, I believe, something far more fundamental. We fear that our weaknesses in the current environment will be exposed, held up for public inspection, and ultimately ridiculed. Change exposes everything about the present that one has worked hard to mask, cover, and mitigate. What if I really don’t understand what I am doing? What if my contribution isn’t valued by the “team”? Could it be that the skills everyone tells me I have is founded on flattery given for their self serving reasons?
In the midst of all this there is a message I wish I could implant in their hearts and minds. “You are loved. You are valued. You are special.”
The model for this response was set in history. A woman was presented as the accused; justice demanded. The events were triggered in part by the change presented by the life of Jesus. From the judge’s seat a new model was presented for you and me.
“Jesus stood up and spoke to her. ‘Woman, where are they [the accusers]? Does no one condemn you?’
‘No one, Master.’
‘Neither do I,’ said Jesus. ‘Go on your way. From now on, don't sin.’” (John 8.10, 11)
I am afraid of many different things in life. Understanding that I am not condemned by God frees me to accept the gift of relationship he offers. I sit in a world driven and shaped by change and the fear traveling along side. I imagine and dream of the possibilities of giving a message of freedom, no condemnation, and mercy one by one, personally. Today is an opportunity to do just that, in every action, choice, and word. This is my opportunity to be the difference.
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