A Concept of Strength

         Recently I have been reminded of the various ways individuals define strength.  Perhaps the most pointed reminder was being told that I was weak.  The reasons that I was told I was weak caused me to pause for a moment, digest, and feel grateful.  The person that said it meant it as a slam but I took it as a compliment.
         Often times life calls us to live counter intuitively.  The philosophy that "only when I am weak, then I am strong" seems backwards.  What does that even mean anyway?! If you're weak, then how can you possibly be strong?! I wrestled with this question for several years when I was first introduced to this philosophy.  In a society of go-getters, competition, hurt, abuse, and sin, the natural response is to build walls.  Strength is often times exercised in our ability to mask our hurt, our vulnerabilities, and portray ourselves as oh, so well put together.  Strength is not allowing our weaknesses to show.
          Real strength is the opposite.  Real strength is being able to live in our truth which exposes us and makes us vulnerable.  Real strength comes in turning the other cheek.  Real strength is admitting we did this wrong. Real strength is loving with God's grace when every thread in our natural being wants to fight back.

I AM WEAK

I am weak for social justice

I bend at the knees

I am weak for love

An outstretched pouring

I am weak for forgiveness

A calling too deep

I am weak for restoration

We will be restored

I am weak for what I believe in

Running through me it flows

I am weak for character and integrity

As it carries us into righteousness

I am weak for humility

Water to dry lips

Community

I am weak

Own your weaknesses and in that you will find strength.