Nouwen tags us correctly when he identifies us as "pain-avoiders." We would prefer not to have the experience of pain, and to some degree, we would like to avoid interactions with those who suffer pain. But life is not always lived in the sunshine, nor is it enjoyed without heartache or conflict. We may run from such challenges, but we cannot run fast or far enough. Jesus challenged his followers to be compassionate, just as God is compassionate...no judgment, no condemnation. "Forgive," he says, "and you will be forgiven." For our faith to truly be a lived experience, we cannot and must not avoid pain. No, it is not something we run toward with great enthusiasm, but it is a part of life, and it is often in that pain and struggle that we learn the most about God, ourselves, and others. Enjoy the sunshine for God is there, but in life's painful moments, seek and listen, for God is there as well. And so, I pray with Nouwen, "to me, O Lord, your stumbling friend, show your mercy." Amen.
JKA
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Nouwen is on target: "self-made compassion" and "competitive selfhood" are harsh, yet often true - they distract. T.S. Eliot's "Ash Wednesday" hit home with his "Redeem the Time" pleading and confession of huge burdens in the image of Rocks. I responded, My rocks are clocks, calendars and lists; forgive my slavery and my resistance. Praise God for his eternal time. Isn't it true that in pain and struggle, time seems to stand still? It rushes by too, but Divine Compassion (I have experienced) more often creates timeless points of connection with family, friends and strangers. Think 9/11, serious illness, death, birth, a child's tears... Let me discover those moments of grace.~ Pam
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