The Point

There's a new category recently:  tipping point.  It's that moment when you're going along, each stimulus getting the same reaction, then suddenly it reverses.  Survival issues, environmental issues, relationship issues, health issues, idea issues all show "tipping points".  In our personal life, we have those.  After many, many "whatevers" happen, we get to the point when we just don't want to accept "whatever" anymore.

News people say we've found another one:  TSA backlash is happening very quickly.  The search business that was tolerable last month has hit a tipping point.  Whatever the arguments pro or con, that "point" becomes an event.  Whether or not the tipping point obscures the process and the reasons for it will be a very public decision.

Our faith comes into play at those idea or ethical or experienced points when we've just had all we can tolerate of something.  The patience of Job, or whoever, is a helpful phrase, for we do admire those who cruise through situations that break the resolve, or the patience of those all around.  Poets have celebrated that quality for generations.  "...if you can keep your head when all about you are losing theirs, then....." for one.

Whether it is environmental or behavioral, a TSA screening or a person's behavior, the faith of a Christian is often tested, and always shows itself, by calmness in that tipping point.  In this case, whatever the irritation, we will NOT let the terrorists win and destroy by disruption.

Today's International Lesson Series was on Psalm 91.  Within the purposes of the covenant, sustained by God for His purposes (and not necessarily for our comfort) we are expected, even in tipping point moments, to calmly (by grace) maintain a thoughtful and servant posture.

A wise man once said, in the midst of all sorts of trials, may your faith set your goals, your heart set your strategy, and your clear mind set your tactics.  Then, keep faith.  And this blessing:  may your personal end come in the midst of your tactics, faithful.