Found a book in Fondren that I've been meaning to read for a while on Friday. Checked it out, finished it in two one-hour sittings. It's a collection of interview-stories collected by StoryCorps, everyday stories about everyday Americans because "if we take the time to listen, we'll find wisdom, wonder, and poetry in the lives and stories of the people around us."
One of my favorite stories: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WNfvuJr9164
Makes me tear up every time I hear it, watch it, read it.
And one more quote:
"I hope that simply reading or listening to the StoryCorps stories can prove transformative as well. These interviews remind us that, contrary to what we might infer from the media, we are not just a nation of celebrity worship and consumption but, rather, a people defined by our character, courage, and heart. These stories are a record of our shared humanity. Hearing them, it becomes clear that no matter who we are or where we come from, there is much more in common that we share than that divides us. These stories are a reminder that if we spent a little less time listening to the racket of divisive radio and TV talk shows and a little more time listening to eat other, we would be a better, more thoughtful, and more compassionate nation."
I was thinking about this after Friday, after Pastor Jason talked about navigating those ethical gray areas, after lots of questions and comments and discussion. Thinking that at the end of the day, we live our lives out fully to the glory of God -- and that is not not to be bound by rules and things-to-do but rather to be free and to relish life and to love! To love as God first loved us. Which means listening to, seeing, being with the people who are placed right beside us. Right beside me. My mission field is right here.
Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer. Lord, let your work be done.
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