JESUS'S PRESENCE IN THE ORDINARY
Dr. Dale E. Turner writing for Health Action News in July 1993 tells an interesting story of John W. Gardner, founding Chairman of Common Cause. Turner quotes Gardner as saying that it is “a rare and high privilege to help people understand the difference they can make -- not only in their own lives, but also in the lives of others, simply by giving of themselves.” Gardner then tells this story:
A cheerful old man asks people that he met for the first time, the same question: "What have you done that you believe in and you are proud of?" He never asked questions like, "What do you do for a living?" It was always, "What have you done that you believe in and are proud of?" Some people feel uncomfortable with the question because life has been completely about building self-esteem, respect and making lots of money. The old man was excited with some answers that came back. A woman answered, "I’m doing a good job raising three children." A cabinetmaker said, "I believe in good workmanship and practice it." Another woman said, "I started a bookstore and it’s the best bookstore for miles around."
These live beyond nine-to-five and experience the alternative – they know the miracle of Jesus’ life and presence in the ordinary.