Definition of “Why:” For what cause, reason, or purpose.
Definition of “Grace:” Approval, Favor, Mercy, Grace
Today’s insert in the Central Presbyterian Church bulletin included details about a personal safety training session that was being held after service. This is a first since I began reading church bulletins in the 1970s. Attendees would be given expertise regarding how to stay safe in a dangerous/lethal situation; at the mall, movies, grocery store etc. Necessary, yes, but also a sobering sign of living in the early 21st century.
Many people outside of my own cultural experience have always had to cope with unsafe living. I know I was fortunate to have known safety as a child which many didn’t experience worldwide. History shows that pain and suffering has been a human condition throughout the ages. Knowing that doesn’t make the dreadful NYC/NJ 1010 wins radio emergency music any less stressful when it breaks into the broadcast.
So yeah, news has really sucked, especially in recent years. Why is it happening? What do we need to do to stop it? Who’s to blame? What are the answers?
Fifteen years ago, I was more prone to believe that there is a reason for everything; there will be an explanation for life’s messiness. Closure, security, and solutions were most important. All answers will come eventually. When I met Elizabeth, she was less satisfied by absolute answers. She had an integral mindset and sought to dig deeper. She aspired to evolve beyond accepted beliefs. This was one of the many intriguing things that drew me to her.
Today after yet another tragic week of loss, Pastor Don brought down the gentle hammer with his thought provoking meditation.
Is God absent when terrible things happen? Or is God present along side of us?
Maybe God is actually along side of us as we navigate life’s grave challenges. Perhaps we are being called to go beyond the who, what, and why and fall into grace and mystery.
Idk. I really don’t. So much doesn’t make sense. Answers really do help; they at least give the illusion of having some control over life’s roulette. But not being alone and the possibility of relief from suffering is something that gives me pause and hope.
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