Day 24 - 40 Days of Prayer - Dana Lindsley

As I contemplate our role as Presbytery Leaders (Executives/General Presbyters) at General Assembly and the role of commissioners, when we, as usual, have some quite controversial issues coming before the Assembly, this thought from Henri Nouwen inspires me about what we can be:

In a world that constantly asks us to make up our minds about other people, a nonjudgmental presence seems nearly impossible. But it is one of the most beautiful fruits of a deep spiritual life and will be easily recognized by those who long for reconciliation.

When we are free from the need to judge or condemn, we can be safe places for people to meet in vulnerability and take down the walls that separate us.

When people realize that we have no hidden agendas or unspoken intentions, that we are not trying to gain any profit for ourselves, and that our only desire is for peace and reconciliation, they may then find the inner freedom and courage to leave their guns at the door and enter in conversation with their enemies.

Dana Lindsley
Executive Presbyter
Presbytery of Southern New England