Light

The conversation was so different from the one we shared months ago.  The old day’s phrases of “I don’t understand”, “I cannot see the reasoning”, “I am not sure” had been exchanged for “This is clear”, “I understand”, and “The logic is evident”.  Even more telling was the tone of the voice, inflection of the words, and flow of the conversation.  Firm, strident, and choppy had fallen to inviting, warm, and ever flowing. 
 
I find myself questioning the logic and purpose behind many things today.  An article in the paper uses words I understand and can define yet I would be the last one to say that I have any clue of the point the author is trying to make.  A colleague explains a concept and it falls on my deaf ears.  It isn’t that I don’t want to understand and endorse the viewpoint; I don’t understand the meaning of the words!  I cannot seem to find the context, intent, and meaning anywhere.  Nothing is familiar.  The reference points and landmarks are missing.  Even with effort nothing becomes clear.  Confusion is the best label I can put on this type of conversation and engagement. 
 
I pause and see many who are in the same camp.  People sit lost while searching for meaning in a world that often appears to be running on chaos.  Others crumple with the pain as they struggle to connect the dots between metaphors representing compassion and love and the reality of individual walk screaming justice and “I” am king. 
 
There is something that makes a difference.  When someone helps form the bridge to true compassion, real love, authentic mercy, I recognize the truth in the conversation.  I can feel it, sense, and even experience the reality of what it means.  Imagine a world where our primary focus was on doing this for those in pain, those who are hungry, and those who are searching.  Imagine a world where because of our actions people “recognize my [Divinity’s] voice.  I know them, and they follow me.”  (John 10.26, 27)
 
This is our opportunity today.