Solidarity in Weakness. Joy is hidden in compassion. The word compassion literally means "to suffer with." It seems quite unlikely that suffering with another person would bring joy. Yet being with a person in pain, offering simple presence to someone in despair, sharing with a friend times of confusion and uncertainty ... such experiences can bring us deep joy. Not happiness, not excitement, not great satisfaction, but the quiet joy of being there for someone else and living in deep solidarity with our brothers and sisters in this human family. Often this is a solidarity in weakness, in brokenness, in woundedness, but it leads us to the center of joy, which is sharing our humanity with others.
When thinking about what types of ministry I'm drawn to, I think of justice education and advocacy as where my strengths are and as something that is life giving to me. But there is also something that tugs at my heart about being with people "in solidarity in weakness" as Henri Nouwen says. I imagine my future will hold many experiences of many types.
This selection from Nouwen is beautiful though, and captures the indescribable. We are not with those in need for our own needs but to help them, and yet there is a grace, a joy, that comes from that sharing. A simple presence becomes a simple present for giver and receiver.
By the way, can anyone explain to me how it got to be February?
2 comments:
Thanks for this quote. I blogged about your post here. It clarified another issue that has been bugging me all day.
I am as lost as you are about how it could possibly be February, though.
February? I'm still getting ready for Thanksgiving .....
Post a Comment