It is hard to know if now is party time. Something always comes up. Pain injects itself when we least expect it. Frustration and anger are lurking at every corner. Disaster sits on the edge of realization. Is now the right time?
I have just gone through three exciting days of meetings, dialogue, and conversation. The willingness of people to explore new horizons is encouraging. The ability of a group to transcend their fears brings hope. The realization of community establishes the foundation for new beginnings and a real future. Yet in the midst of the hope, enthusiasm, and genuine excitement lies the ambush of fear, uncertainties, and doubts. Fear is held by those close to us that are not willing to look with hope. Uncertainties are driven by members of the family who are unwilling to forgive and move into the future. Doubts are seen as reflections in the mirror of today’s reality.
In the midst of the hope and anger lies the question of celebration. Is now the time? Is today the day? Will darkness overcome light?
The blunt answer is that the City’s “gates will never be shut by day, and there won’t be any night.” (Revelation 21.25) Now is as good as anytime to celebrate, to dance with God! We have a time still to be saddled with burdens, anger, and pain, but these things cannot stop the celebration! God has given us hope, mercy, and love. Nothing that exists in this world can change this fact. We are children of God. We are God’s beloved. We, you and I, have life eternal! So the only reality is celebration!
Those that saw me recently know that I was overcome with negative emotions. The pain was and is intense. Yet I sit and cry with God. I love you God. You are my fortress and stronghold forever; the “rock” of my salvation. I will celebrate! I will revel in the hope that you give freely. I trust in your holy name! I love you God. I love you Jesus. So lets party!
