Momentum

I often forget the link between the physical world and the world in which we live.  One example is the scientific word “momentum”.  Momentum is always linked with some kind of physical object; it never stands on its own.  The word is traditionally used to describe the force a physical object carries with it as it moves with a particular rate of speed to continue in the same direction it was already heading.  Something standing still has no momentum.  Over time, momentum has been adapted to describe the probability of a particular situation or idea being alive in the future.  I don’t think I have ever calculated the momentum of a change program, but projects, ideas, and principles have momentum. 
 
When I think of the past, present, and future, I wonder which values I hold close to my heart have momentum.  Does the “feelings” which came as I looked into the faces full of hope yet facing a bleak future in India still hold power?  Am I compelled into action because of them?  Will the power and truth of the experience shape the experiences I have yet to have?
 
In Jesus day there was a moment when the crowd responded to the truth and power of his life.  As the celebration erupted even “the Pharisees took one look and threw up their hands: ‘It's out of control.  The world's in a stampede after him.’”  (John 12.19)  There was clearly momentum within the party, celebration and the crowd!
 
In the context of today I know there are principles, ideas, and people I believe are important.  The elements describing the momentum, force, and probability of the events being a core part of my life in the future are often illusive, yet I know they include something simple in the present; a choice.  Is the value, principle, or idea something I hold true?  Will I let it shape the decision and action at hand?  Does the action just taken reflect the value? 
 
Once the cycle completes it begins again and again and again.  In basic terms; choice determines momentum.