Amazing! At least at this point in time that seems to be the best word I know to describe a situation that continues to provide a serious stumbling block for people who are seeking a community of unconditional love and acceptance. So clearly people continue to live in a world of fear and scarcity – but – at the same time continue to proclaim that they have faith in an all-powerful and all-loving God. It seems to me that the proclamation of faith without the practice of that faith is not faith!

For years and in many locations I have been a member of a communities of faith that have found it impossible to actually practice unconditional love and acceptance – afraid of what might happen if they practice the tenets they proclaim so boldly.

Unconditional love and acceptance are difficult – they involve letting go – they require a willingness to not be in charge – they demand a level of trust and faith which are often frightening. And yet so many are unable to see that their lives are out of control – willfully trying to be in control – to take charge – to manipulate and manage. That seems to me to be the essence of the first step of the Twelve-Steps – a willingness to admit that things do not work when we demand that we remain in control – and that is followed, of course, by steps two and three – coming to a realization that there is a greater power that is able to restore our sanity – and then being willing to turn control of our lives over to that greater power. It is so very simple – but – at the same time so incredibly difficult – but it offers the only hope for the future.

I am blessed to have recently been invited to become a part of a community of faith that seeks to intentionally practice unconditional love and acceptance. That practice restores a sense of calm – a sense of blessing – a sense of grace and peace. But – it is only able to happen when we are willing to no longer be willful.