Light

When I was in my early university business classes, there was a right way and the wrong way.  There were a set of “givens”.  The range was incredible.  We learned that there was an optimal was to design an oil container.  We understood that certain manufacturing techniques would become obsolete with advancements in technology and management tools.  We were certain we would always be the cutting edge of innovation.  Science, technology, and deductive reasoning were the keys to the light.
 
We were so wrong!
 
In the context of yesterday’s certainties, oil containers would have never become square, vinyl records would have died, and cars would be bland utilitarian tools that moved one from point A to B.  The list of old/new business models is endless.  The only certainty is one of change, innovation, and rediscovery. 
 
What is clear, then and now comes through some simple principles.
 
Service – the simple acts of respect, kindness, and engaged compassion – is a priceless gift one person gives to another.  With service, we willing pay a higher price for a product or service.  With service, we receive something greater than we expected.  With service, we want more.
 
Relationship – the connection between two human beings – pivots on truth.  When truth is present, both parties come away stronger.  When even one comes to a relationship with evil, both suffer as a result.
 
Joy is one of life’s greatest treasures.  When one gives it to another, in person or through a product or service, magical things happen.  We, individually, together, and as a community, are better because of it.  It is one of Hope’s parents.
 
One of God’s children left us with an observation; “Listen, far-flung islands, pay attention, faraway people: God put me to work from the day I was born.  The moment I entered the world he named me.”  (Isaiah 49.1)  Today, this can be your words and mine.  We are here to work, to give service, to be in relationship, and to help give birth to joy.  We are God’s agents, handy men and women.  We are the light, the difference.