Psalm 116:1-4, 12-19

Easter 3 - Year A

Psalm 116:1-4, 12-19

“Because!”

We are a results driven people. Something good happens and G*D did it for G*D can do no wrong. Something bad happens and we did it for we can do no right. Sometimes we claim the good that happens and blame G*D for catastrophic, “acts of god”.

In focusing on the outcome and working backward we find a multitude of ways to avoid simply being thankful for an opportunity in which to live and move and have our being. If there is not a direct tie to an outcome, our current behavior is dismissed as irrelevant.

The word “because” is still a valuable tool, but only if it works in a forward direction, not reflexively. Because I have done the best I can, I can stand whatever result comes along.

Being part of a larger system and systems within systems, there is not a single cause and effect. To denigrate what I can do based on immediate results or quarterly financial gain, is to put Ourselves and G*D and Neighbors and even Enemies in impossible situations where miracle is the only out available.

So, If we give up, we still have our supporters who can carry us onward. If all we can do is stand mute in the face of unfairness, it is a valuable revelation of the meanness of the principalities and powers. If we engage injustice with all our will and skill, the fears of a broken community can still overwhelm our witness as well as process and decision-making. If we are dependent upon the outcome, that which occurs “because” of a specific action of ours, we never get to rejoice in the relief, delight, and triumph of the mystery of adding our part to a transformation of this wobbly old world into a new paradise on earth.

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May you avoid the trap of “Because!” things didn’t turn out the way I wanted, what I did was valueless.

May your use of “Because!” give you a forward leaning, powdermilk biscuit, perspective, thankful for the strength to get up and do what needs to be done, regardless of the result.