Friday, February 16, 2018

Humanity Unshakable

Wednesday, we entered into the season of Lent, a time for self-examination, reflection, and repentance (or to turn from one's ways). As usual, I too attended an Ash Wednesday service.  I watched as a child, probably five or six, received the ashes in the shape of a cross on the back of her hand.  As she walked away, she shook her hand, as if to shake them off, looking back at her hand to see they were still there.  Tears welled in my eyes.  

Humanity is unshakable.  

Ecclesiastes tells us, there is a time to live and a time to die (3:2). Our humanity encompasses both living and dying.  Both are part of who we are as human.  Most of us have experienced the grief as we said goodbye to a loved one.  The reality can be overwhelming at the time and when we look back to remember.  

This child is already learning the reality of her humanity.  Her time is limited. From dust she came and to dust she will return.  

For it is the same with us all.  Our time is limited.  We are human.  From dust we came and to dust we will return.  

What will you do with the time you have?  For our humanity is unshakable.  

Are there places in your life that you wish to change?  Now is the time. 

Are there people with whom you need to repair a relationship?  Now is the time.  

Are there hurts, habits, and hang ups that need to be addressed? Now is the time. 

For our time is limited.  Humanity is unshakable.