Strength

There are a lot of big, strong, and amazing things in New York.  Tall buildings dominate the skyline.  Big, strong institutions call New York home.  Amazing people, heroes in their own right, dominate finance, music, and the arts.  In all kinds of nooks, crannies, and allies one can find the best of the best!  In contrast to Texas, everything is bigger in New York – good and bad. 
 
In the midst of it all it is easy to forget God is here.  I was stunned to find God’s paintbrush at work in the evening sky.  Pastels were brushed on all kinds of reflective surfaces; reminders of a quieter space were people often go to find Divinity.  I was caught off guard when I witness acts of random kindness.  Perhaps that city that never sleeps hasn’t lost sight of what is important.  I didn’t realize how much I still had to learn, even as I listen to one far wiser than me share part of his journey.
 
It is also easy to find one’s self offended.  People are busy, am I willing to give them the grace I demand?  People are overwhelmed by sounds, sights, and a flood of information.  Can I share the same mercy God freely gives you and me?  Pain, tragedy, and fear shares steps with those of all ages, behaviors, and beliefs.  Will I be God’s eyes, ears, and hands for others in the midst of my journey?
 
You and I hold an invitation.  It is a standing invitation to walk with the Spirit.  It is an opportunity to share all that is important with Divinity.  It is something which changes with our response.  A yes opens up to something we have not imagined, cannot experience any other way, and often fear.  A no closes a door which gets harder and harder to open.
 
“God is supremely esteemed. His center holds.  Zion brims over with all that is just and right.  God keeps your days stable and secure—salvation, wisdom, and knowledge in surplus, and best of all, Zion's treasure, Fear-of-God.”  (Isaiah 33.5, 6)