Walking is an opportunity to reflect and observe, in either order. On this occasion, it was well into the evening. Everything around me was fighting with the darkness. With limited success in the battle, it was hard to see that either side was winning.
A lingering sense of being abandoned was highlighted by the electric scooter, parked in a place that made little sense. There were no destinations without several minutes of walking. I could not imagine anyone looking for a scooter in this location. Whoever had rented the scooter had taken the contractual liberty of leaving it when one was done to the limits of reasonableness.
As the criticism of an unknown person began to grow in my thinking, I found myself looking in the mirror. I could see similarities in my approach to Divinity. The reminders and lessons shaping the day ahead include the following.
In a relationship, both sides matter. A relationship is never just about me. Intuitively I know this. The “but” comes when I see a reflection of my choices and behaviours. While any one action may be within the lines of what is ok, the trend speaks to a one-way motivation.
There are many kinds of debt. As I looked at the scooter, I realised how often I use another’s willingness to help to my advantage. Along the way I accumulate debts that I do not recognise and, if the reflection is detailed, I cannot repay. The admonition of Paul is uncomfortably loud; “Don’t run up debts, except for the huge debt of love you owe each other. When you love others, you complete what the law has been after all along.” (Romans 13.8)
Today is an opportunity to change the relationship. In the community, I can be a positive contributor to what comes next. If it’s a scooter, helping the company serve the next customer, while not required, does help everyone. Patience is essential. Learning and growth will be a part of the process. Each moment can reflect the new approach. In the new day, “we” are first.
