After The Work

War has been an increasingly televised event, often times used to encourage folks at home to support the victory of their respective army. For example, the war of aggression in Ukraine might seem like a world away, until we begin to see destruction of homes, cries of children, and desolation of once beautiful cities. Things look familiar, the theme of invasion hits closer to home.

War is not a new feature of human nature; it is indicative of our failures to grow from our more primal fears and aggression and move towards diplomacy and talking out our needs. This may seem naive to some, but it is true. Jesus was indicative of this teaching, rebuking Peter from using his sword when he was being confronted, healing the ear of his perceived “enemy”.

What humanity has proved again and again is that we rise again. We rebuild. When the powers that be finally stay their hand, we look around at the ashes around and we survive. Just war is meant to protect the innocent, not to expand into unsustainable growth. Sadly, war is still fought leaving the meek to inherit the earth.

Our personal growth can benefit from this perspective in that God has planted in us the seeds of hope and optimism. We are far more resilient than we perceive. We may feel battered down by the world, others, or our own mistakes. There are times we feel our lives are reduced to ash, Something is there to enable us to rise again.

There are three features of human existence that enable this amazing feature of resilience. First, hope is an incredible force that pulls us forward towards a better day to come. Next, we need others to share our experiences failures and joys; this is the essence of love and empathy. Finally, faith is the foundation that the God of the Universe not only exists but will help us move forward through reassurance and opportunity.

Each of these topics are incredibly deep–and controversial. There are thousands of words that war against faith, hope, and love yet they continue to prove themselves true throughout history. This is not dogmatism, but actual living, breathing life. The life of Jesus Christ is indicative of this. He had great faith, he preached hope to the hopeless, and he loved like no other.

Out of the ashes civilization has grown again and again. Out of death, Jesus rose to eternal life. Believe it or not, history has proved this truth, that we too will rise again from the ashes. Whether your life feels like ash, or your home is literally ash, humanity strives to survive and thrive. Don’t give up because things are difficult, they could always be worse. Rather embrace what has made people great; faith that there is purpose for our existence, hope for a better day to come, and love that is the sustaining force between ourselves, others, and God himself.

“Rising from Ashes” – Phoenix Bird Dotillism Art (2016) Painting by Olesea Arts