There are cracks in our psyche. In our world. In our relationships. We try to hide or run from them or keep them contained, or find some way to close our eyes, in order to not be embarrassed. Perhaps you can relate.
But here’s the deal: when we see only the cracks, our blindness may not be complete darkness, but scotoma—which means “selective blindness”. Because vulnerability unnerves me so, I often prefer to live with my blindness. (Of course, it's always for a good reason. After all, it seems to serve me well.) Regardless, it is a way of not-seeing, and in the end, a way of not-living. And in our increasingly polarized world, this blindness prevents us from being present. Or aware. Or compassionate. Whether it is to those close to me, or to injustice, or to joy, or to passion. When we are blind, we hide behind self-righteousness, narrow-mindedness, an unfair life, self-doubt, and fear.
But what if, love is alive and well? What if love is the way?
“All I know,” said the man, “is that once I was blind and now I see.”
This is an avowal made famous by John Newton, former slave trader, and author of the world's most recognized song: Amazing Grace.
It is from a moving story in the Gospel of John. And today, let us consider and embrace the fact that this is not a case study or cerebral exercise or illustration. At some point, this is personal. I can tell you, I am the man in that gospel story.
And we need to decide whether or not we are “playing church”.
Either we believe in grace, or we do not.
Either we believe in real transformation, or we do not.
Either we believe in hope, or we do not.
Either we believe love is the way, or we do not.
This transformation cannot be orchestrated or coerced or predicated on shame. It can however, be embraced, and celebrated, and shared.
The transformation comes, when we recognize that sight—this new way “To Be” in the world—is a Gift. It doesn’t happen because we try harder. Or have more faith.
What difference does this make?
If we give up our blindness, we accept our vulnerability and embrace responsibility. Because Grace gives us sight. And sight connects us. (I love the greeting in the movie Avatar, "I see you." I acknowledge you.) And this kind of love has the power to change the world. I don't have three steps to compassionate living. However, here’s the deal; if we are open to it, grace—the power of “love is the way”—changes our life. And that change spills to everyone around us. Even if we can't explain it.
Quote for our week… “Do your little bit of good where you are; it’s those little bits of good put together that overwhelm the world.” Desmond Tutu
Terry Hershey @Sabbath Moments
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