It is human to jump to a conclusion and quickly label a person or an event good or bad. If you are like me, you can quickly name three things that are “bad” going on in the world today.
The Christian story invites us to hold back our judgement and wonder if something more is also actually happening in any event. Our ancient faith witnesses to the truth that a "bad" event may actually usher something that is hopeful and even redemptive. The story of Jesus invites us to wonder what of God is emerging under the surface facts. After all we do call the day Jesus was crucified, Good Friday.
I was recently reminded of this Taoist story about the wisdom of the old Chinese farmer.
A
Chinese farmer gets a horse, which soon runs away. A neighbor says, "That's bad news." The farmer replies, "Good news, bad news, who can say?"
The horse comes back and brings another horse with him. Good news, you might say.
The farmer gives the second horse to his son, who rides it, then is thrown and badly breaks his leg.
"So sorry for your bad news," says the concerned neighbor. "Good news, bad news, who can say?" the farmer replies.
In a week or so, the emperor's men come and take every able-bodied young man to fight in a war. The farmer's son is spared.
Good news, of course.
Labels give us a false sense of control. Our labels break down over time and a more complex story is always revealed that was unfolding all the time. Jesus taught people to refrain from labels and instead act in love for peace. Jesus taught us to trust God's redemptive reality at work within a wild world.
Being part of a spiritual community invites us to join others who are willing to practice the faith, listen to wisdom and pray amid the turning events of our lives and history. I am so grateful to share the journey with you. Together we cling to the words of Jesus who said, “
Do not let your hearts be troubled, believe in me.”
With You on the Journey.
