Parts of my past are controversial. The bad news is the amount of controversy gives far too many people reasons for concern. The good news, or so they tell me, is the fact that controversy is a leading indicator for something on the verge of radical creativity, maybe more. I doubt that there is anything more in my case, especially as I cope with the concern.
In some ways it is nice to have the attention. The challenge is how to appropriate deal with it. One idea that surfaced is having another one review my actions and activities during this year. I don’t know that I was initially warm to the idea but as it sits it grows. As I read John’s witness this morning, listening for what God might have to say, I was struck by how often others wonder and doubt our actions. In short, we all need witnesses!
According to John the beloved, Jesus was being challenged. Simply put, people didn’t accept the stories that they had heard, especially when Jesus gave them his side of the events and details behind the scenes. At one point in the debate the logic shifted from direct events to another’s testimony.
“Furthermore, you all saw and heard John [the Baptist], and he gave expert and reliable testimony about me, didn't he?” (John 5.33)
That is what I need! I need someone to give expert and reliable testimony about me. Even as I write this I am not alone. Each of us comes under attack, especially as we respond to the truth of compassion, mercy, and standing up for those for whom justice is merely a fleeting thought. If you are not under attack now you easily could be. It just takes one person, one accusation, or even one innocent comment taken out of context.
I am fortunate to have those I know will stand with me, or at least I hope. In the end it will not matter because God is our ultimate witness and judge. I believe God lived truth will, actually already has triumphed.
