There has been much in the news lately about the cruise ship that was languishing in the Gulf of Mexico and the uncomfortable conditions that the people had to face. In one report it was mentioned that in spite of the challenges the crew and many of the passengers maintained the attitude that, “We’re all in this together.” This is a refreshing observation given the pervasiveness of individualism in our culture.
The disabled cruise ship experience reminds us of Noah’s ark and the spaceship Earth. It reminds us that we, too, are all in this together. We are inhabiting one planet. It is home to everyone. What we do affects others. The behavior of others affects us. We will ultimately sink or swim together.
Lent is a time to think about what we are doing to make the journey better for others. What are we doing to see that all have a better experience in this life? What are we doing to support the good of the whole? Blaming, pointing fingers, assuming a patronizing attitude, insisting on privilege, these things do not serve the good of all. Listening and assisting serve the wider community. Understanding and working together sustain life.
Prayer: As we journey through this Lenten season, may we shift our thinking from “me” to “we.” We pray to be freed from our bondage to self-interest and individualism. By investing ourselves in the well-being of others, we are saved. God so loved the world that God sent Jesus. May we, too, love the whole world. Amen.
Lakewood United Church of Christ 