The words on the paper say “we” hold certain values to be true. The rhetoric clearly pulls one down a path of aspiring to live out and realize a dream with the values holding center stage. When one reviews plans for personal development there is a clear statement of hope and confidence in the role values play in winning. Yet when living in the world, surviving takes on a very different meaning.
I wonder if I have any desire to compete in the way the street suggests I need to compete. I find myself puzzled; I do not understand the apparent lukewarm attitude of leaders who are not willing to deal with the street’s expressed behavior (values) as they conflict with our ideals. There are clearly different frameworks at play. Pride, arrogance, and fear shape one side while compassion, mercy, and respect shape another. In the midst of the conflict I sense the continuing call to live and work in this place, modeling the values while trying to survive.
Survival is not guaranteed. Even when one works to be open and straightforward, success is not guaranteed. Things haven’t changed from when Jesus faced the same type of conflict. The ongoing whispers drew everyone’s attention away from his stated purpose. Even when the explanation about the future was put on the table their response indicated the attitude that continued to prevail.
“What is he talking about, anyway: ‘You will look for me, but you won't find me,’ and ‘Where I am, you can't come’?” (John 7.36)
What were he and now I talking about and why?
Answering this question is at the heart of knowing our call and purpose. What are the themes of our lives? Why do we hold these themes close to our hearts? Are we in sync with Divinity’s call?
It is clear the street’s values focus on survival and self. They conflict with the values I hold to be good and true. What you and I do with this conflict ultimately determines our survival. In who or what do you trust?
2023 Copyright © Daily Whispers.