Tonight I saw perhaps one of the most Christ-like things I have ever encountered. At a Community Justice Board (a diversion program in our community to help young people who have made a mistake get back on track), I saw a one of the board members interact with a young man who was really struggling to comply with the program (non-compliance = failure and the child is returned to the court system to follow the normal track). As he walked away, I saw her look at him, obviously filled with compassion.
I've heard my husband speak on this passage in such a way that I could barely imagine how powerful and overwhelming was the compassion that Jesus felt toward people, but tonight I saw it with my own eyes. For the moment in time that I watched this leader pull herself together (she was fighting back the tears) so she could do her job, I saw Jesus standing there--eyes filling up wtih tears, longing to heal, wanting to bring the kingdom...it was powerful.
And, girls, it was a woman, a mother, a sister, a beautiful person who so embodied God's love in that moment that I was in awe.
In another time and place I would have simply written this off as no more than a good deed, but unfortunately without the right list of propositional truths it was meaningless. How sad and ironic that we have settled for a cheaper version of the truth--faith based on propositions instead of a dynamic living presence of a holy God who does actually walk among us.
Labels: Social Justice
Syl,
I think it is a beautiful thing, when we experience something, almost indescribable. I agree, when I put my focus on just being more loving, compassionate, and understanding, Jesus seems to "appear" in ways I am sure I missed so many times. I think it's unfortunate, when we get stuck in the "bullet points" of what Jesus is. I have had too many moments lately, where the "bullet points" are being defended, and yet, I just don't sense the presence of Jesus. Jesus isn't a system, or an outline to live, He is an experience and a way of life. He should dwell within us, and our "ways" should reflect Him. I am sure you Saw Jesus within that moment.