Unity Church of Dallas - Rev. Elizabeth Thompson

A Message from
Rev. Elizabeth Thompson
Senior Minister Candidate

Life is Not a Spectator Sport

Often when I read the newspaper which I refer to as, “Daily Prayer Request,” it is tempting to throw up my hands, run around in circles like Chicken Little and yell out the alarm, “the sky is falling, the sky is falling.” Yet, this is not a viable option. More than ever we live in a time of global integration. Societies, economics, and life systems are inextricably interwoven. Because of this dynamic integration, we are often called out of our comfort zone. Today’s Spiritual Practice is no longer a cave sport of isolation. Rather, it has evolved into a team sport of inspired participation. We have an invitation to suit up, show up and live life full out while abiding at the same time in a center of peace. Yes, I know…easy for me to say.

Not only are we designed to participate fully in life, we must have an open mind concerning the outcome. Long ago I learned that though I am in charge of my attitudes and choices in how to show up for life, Spirit was in charge of the result. Equally important for my peace of mind is releasing outcomes of how life had to be in order for me to be happy. My divine crystal ball never reveals concrete outcomes but it does show me that all life experiences have a lesson to offer as well as a gift to give. It also reveals that my participation in life matters. More and more I rely upon the principle that Divine Order is always at work even when the results are not predictable – most often they are better.

- Erich Jantsch, Austrian astrophysicist made the statement in 1980, “In life, the issue is not control, but dynamic connectedness.” What a glorious invitation to evolve from ritualized habits which embrace controlled outcomes into a willing participation in a dynamic process of unpredictable results. Equally wonderful is the awakening of all creation to the power of the great Presence. This Omni benevolent God works through all creation conspiring to manifest outstanding outcomes far beyond our present expectations.

Global synergy compels us into active participation. What worked yesterday may not be appropriate today. May we be willing to live in uncertainty while stepping forth in faith-filled action. Indeed, life unfolds through us and evolves all around us for the greater good. Unity teaches that our relationship with Universal Principles is a dynamic process evolving through our conscious participation. Life issues an invitation to us to be willing vessels pouring out the living water of Christ Life into a very thirsty environment.

Let me be clear, while meditating in seclusion is essential on our spiritual journey, we are still called out by Spirit to actively participate in life. Jesus Christ instructed us to let our Light shine in the World (not cover it up in isolation). Our Christ Light illuminates the path especially in times of uncertainty. We journey together on a path of unending creative progress. Our shared participation enhances the celebration of the journey and our service of compassion uplifts the Universe.

Pssst… the sky isn’t falling, it is opening up and the vision is awesome!

In loving Service,
Elizabeth

Message Date: May 1, 2008