I came around the curve and as far I could see in front of me was red…as in car brake lights. Slowing down I approached the car in front of me and began to chuckle as I thought to myself, “Well, at least I’ll have some entertainment while I sit.” The back of the van in front of me was covered with stickers: slogans, artistic designs and some that had clearly seen better days.
As I perused the gallery of auto art my eye was immediately drawn to Think Globally, Act Locally. The first time I saw this bumper sticker was decades ago on a beat up Volkswagen van that belonged to a caterer I worked for. A smile came across my face as I reminisced about how much fun I had working with a pioneer in the farm to table movement.
Former Speaker of the House Tip O’Neil is credited with the phrase, “All politics is local.” Similarly Episcopal Bishop Mark Dyer was known for suggesting, “All theology is local and contextual.” A particularly important concept for those who work at higher levels of organizations who far too often forget about the unique experience and perspective of those on the ground.
My stuck-in-traffic wandering mind began to muse on the timeless universality of the importance of cultivating a larger, broader perspective that is transferable and actionable in local culture and context. The reality is we are more connected and interdependent across the globe – and – our own communities have more needs than ever before.
The simple, yet profound question that was asked of Jesus of Nazareth, “Who is my neighbor?” is more poignant now than ever. We do have a shared humanity as neighbors – and – we have neighbors in our own communities that need us.
“Humility, accountability, and involvement in a local faith community – signs of a genuine change of heart.” -Mark Earley.
BP