Power

In almost any direction I drive, I see giant turbines harnessing the power of the wind and acres of solar farms collecting the sun’s rays. Whether you view these man-made inventions as blessing or blight, their power and impact are undeniable.

Does it all come down to my attitude, to consciously choose to view something as either positive or negative? The difference between what is right and what is wrong is not what I am debating. Rather, a big wake-up call that my viewpoint and disposition of heart are totally under my control. Just as those giant windmills can be remotely adjusted for wind direction, or turned on and off, so must I frequently readjust my outlook to bend to God’s will.

This leads to my decision to view those giant turbines as a reminder of the One I must rely on, the one to whom I must yoke myself to profit from His power. The solar farms represent a great visual of the benefits of turning our faces, our lives, toward the Son so we benefit from this amazing source of power in our lives…His grace.

Even on sunless (joyless) or calm (routine) days without wind (direction), I can harness this power. I can accept the light-weight yoke of my God. I can choose to partner with Him and tap into the ultimate source of power.

I confess my own guilt in relying too much on earthly, finite powers (including my own!). To borrow a lesson from Don Quixote, we are often just tilting at windmills, expending effort on things that are an inevitable waste of time and energy. Let’s heed the reminder in this Sunday’s Responsorial Psalm, the Lord has revealed to the nations his saving power.

Once again, a Henri Nouwen reflection, “Power through Powerlessness,” put into words what should be my heart’s disposition:

When we dare to be baptized in powerlessness…we are plunged right into the heart of God’s mercy…we are able to walk in the valley of darkness and tears…confidently standing under the cross of our life. It is this divine power that makes us saints – fearless – who can make all things new.