Active Hope

During Game 7 of the World Series, I was working on homework. As I crawled into bed that night, I checked the score again, expecting to see the Cubs maintaining a significant lead. I was shocked to find the game tied. Knowing, however, that there was not much I could do to assist the Cubs in clinching the title, I turned off my phone and went to bed so that I would be awake for my job the next morning.

Nearly a week later, I checked my phone again as I crawled into bed to read the news of the election results that were starting to come in. Again I saw what I was not expecting. Knowing there was nothing more I could do though having cast my vote and continuing to pray, I went to bed so that again I could get up and do my job the next morning.

Do we become so focused on what we can no longer control that we lose our energy to do what we still can?

I was immensely encouraged by reading the Facebook posts of several of my friends following the election. While many were disappointed in the result, their frustration at what the many had not stood against was met with a commitment to individually do what they could to stand against disregard for the dignity of other human beings. Compared to recognized offices of leadership and power around the globe, which in some cases protect and in other cases disregard the value of people, one's ability to protect and serve people may seem small. Even small contributions though can lead to great things. However, as our ability to contribute may lead to great things, our negligence or outright disregard for others can lead to terrible things. 

No matter who one voted for, may individual commitments to stand up for human rights, to care for neighbors, and for love to be proven through actions not be postponed. May people not be so enthralled and disheartened by the news that they become inactive in their own communities. Hope is an active thing.

As Christians, we cannot forget to that this calling to contribute as individuals applies to ministry too (of which loving others is a crucial part). See post entitled Active Anticipation from June 14 this year for more on how this may look within the context of ministry.

"And the second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself." Matthew 2:39