I am trying to get used to the idea that I may one day be living in a monarchy. What does one do? I am 74 years old. My world is getting smaller each day. That is, my world of influence.
What does one do when children are suffering? Would hopping on a plane and going to the boxes that hold them, banging on the doors, parking on the concrete and crying “help” do anything?
Would such a gesture mean anything in a monarchy? I don’t know. So far I have not had to live in one. I didn’t think so, anyway.
I have studied history. I have studied religion and philosophy. Some of my most profound teachers have lived under monarchical systems who prayed and wrote and served the poor. Some who lived in democratic sytems did the same. Some were activists, known by many or by a few. But all lived their lives authentically, no matter the context in which they lived. They were free, even in shackles or behind bars.
God’s ways are so far above mine that I am breathless. I have to stop in my track to rest. I look. I listen…what is to be my response? I pray for these who act, even if their actions seem to lead nowhere. They inspire me. They deepen my belief in a God Who may not really care about systems, but about loving. Just loving.
I don’t know. I care, I love my neighbor in my little corner of the world. This I can do.
CS Lewis said something like: Prayer doesn’t change God, it changes me.
Chuck, my mother in recovery used to say that. You are so right.
I am reading right now about the levels of consciousness and am touched by the very thing you are talking about…every time we speak a kind word, say a prayer, think a peaceful thought, appreciate God’s gifts, the world shifts a little because we are all part of it. We are all one.
I miss seeing you.
It is such a beautiful day here in Middle Minnesota. Nice thinking of you.
Judy
Thank you Judy. I do the same rant and come to the same place. I do believe the Church needs to speak as one voice. The evangelical voice is not mine…
Thanks for the comment, Pat. My mom used to say, ‘Prayer is for the pray-er”. I know it helps this pray-er to pray.