It’s almost impossible lately to stay “neutral” about anything. I am oftentimes caught between saying something that I know will offend, to not saying anything and still offending someone by my silence. I am walking a thin, tight rope that precariously wobbles me over a precipice. My balance is shaky at best, but in this climate of political and world upheaval, I hardly know what to say, do, or pray anymore.
I am Canadian. I am Albertan. Those two statements should not cause division but they do. I am nervous flying my Canadian flag in a province now that wants to secede from confederation. I understand the anger, the disappointment many of my neighbours and even members of my church family have towards a federal government that has for years seemed to ignore the needs and wishes of Albertans. For example: former Prime Minister Trudeau named all the provinces of Canada in his speech on Canada’s 150th Birthday celebrations, but forgot to name Alberta. It’s a slight, however minor, but it’s something that proud Albertans don’t forget. I didn’t.
I don’t want to go into all the ways that Albertans are holding serious grievances against the federal government in Ottawa. Let’s just say, they are justified. However, I find myself also staunchly defending working within a sovereign Canada. I’m a “why can’t we all just get along?” type gal. So, I’m hugging the line, and praying fervently for my province and my nation. I want to remain neutral. I won’t sign any petition to stay or to go. I want to fly both flags and not have to choose between the two.
This past month I so enjoyed watching the Milano-Cortina Winter Olympics. In a world filled with turmoil, the Olympics focus on human athleticism, where nations come together in peaceful competition. Certainly there are rivalries amongst the nations, but in the spirit of cooperation, we applaud every athlete whether they stand on the podium or not. I am looking forward to the Paralympics that applauds efforts by athletes who have faced daunting physical challenges to compete on a national stage. I love their stories, and admire their skills! I pray for all the athletes.
How I wish the Olympics were not politicized. Leading up to these events, there is already controversy. The nations at war demonstrating against the injustices on both sides. Here I am again on that thin line! When will the turmoil end? I hardly know what to think, let alone, to pray.
This past week, I have been swaying back and forth like a willow tree. Trying to stay rooted to one spot, but constantly bending and trying to stay neutral about a variety of issues, hearing both sides, but still wanting to remain objective. I’ve prayed for wisdom, I’ve prayed for discernment, I’ve prayed for words of comfort, compassion, and understanding to those who seem caught up in the daily events that seem so out of control. Prayer seems to be the only tangible response to a world gone mad.
A seemingly innocuous argument has surfaced as of yesterday when British Columbia announced they will remain on daylight savings time permanently. Alberta is considering the same thing. If you read the social media commentary today and the firestorm this has caused in B.C., one wonders about priorities people have. The U.S. and Israel are bombing Iran in an unprecedented onslaught, yet people here are upset we have to set our clocks back or ahead an hour.
March has already come in like a Lion. We usually use that phrase when we speak about the weather. If the weather is wintry, cold, and blustery on March 1st, the month is roaring it’s wrath like a lion, and the expectation is that the end of the month will end in calmer, balmy weather – going out like a lamb. This year, March is starting with unrest and division. Is it any wonder I want to put a spin on that proverb?
Using the Lion and Lamb analogy we come across the majestic figure of the Lion of Judah, representing Christ’s powerful nature. The lion signifies His strength and authority. When we think of the Lion of Judah, we are reminded that we serve a God who is not only gentle and compassionate, like a lamb, but also fierce and mighty. This duality provides us with sacred assurance. We can approach God with trust and reverence, knowing He is both our protector and our guide. The symbolism invites us to lean on Him during times of turmoil, letting His power comfort us while we seek His peace. This is hugging a secure line of knowing God is in perfect control in all circumstances and I can rest in perfect peace that He is both the Lion and the Lamb.
I find the balance I need rooted in the Word to navigate these worrisome, troubled times. My prayer life reflects that. I recently came across a wonderful model of prayer, posted by Amanda Hayhurst on Facebook:
I have been using this particular model when praying for family, friends, neighbours, church family, political leaders etc.
March may have come in like a Lion this month, but I am praying boldly according to His Will, and I do feel a peace that surpasses understanding as the Lamb of God leads me in all His Ways.
Lynn Dove's Journey Thoughts 