I freely admit that I either am or have strong tendencies towards being a cynic. I find myself following several subconscious steps. First, I quickly extrapolate from actions and words today through to tomorrow. Second, I compare where we are going to end up at with the stated destination. If I find that the results do not connect with the goal articulated my doubts begin to rise. If I find repeated examples of the disconnect I quickly take on a cynical attack.
As logical and factual as this approach might be I actually believe that it is pointless! Perhaps my conclusions are flawed. Perhaps there are factors that will influence the outcome of our efforts. Perhaps there are people making decisions to bring whole new streams of influence factors into the equation. Perhaps I killed the patient when there was still hope beating in their heart.
Cynics are often very sure of their facts and logic. Both are within their understanding, they have reviewed and discussed their approach with other experts, and they believe the chance of being wrong is extremely small if it exists at all. However, what if they do not understand all the facts or players?
Cynics look to those who fail and commit them to playing the doomed martyr for life. A mistake when one is young will often haunt everyone involved far longer than any learning occurs. People who question and challenge are quickly labeled as disrupters, critics, and unbelievers. People who seek, openly admitting what they do not know, are found to be na?ve, slow, or dumb.
The phenomenon is not new. In every situation where failure occurs the questions are the same. “Are [we] they down for the count? Are we [they] out of this for good? And [God’s] the answer is a clear-cut no.” (Romans 11.11)
God responds to failure with love. God answers the cynics with acceptance. God deals with despair using consistent and unending mercy and hope. God believes we are worthy for restoration. God models our response to life today. God love us very much.
