But let us not put our sights too high. We do not have to be saviours of the world! We are simply human beings, enfolded in weakness and in hope, called together to change our world one heart at a time. – Jean Vanier in Becoming Human
Jesus did not cure all the sick people of his day. He chose to spend some of his time teaching, being alone, being with his disciples, praying, traveling, sleeping, etc. Some have described him as having a way of “holy leisure” about him. And many have acknowledged him as the Savior of the world.
So, why does our culture glorify busy-ness? Why do we set our sights so high on doing so much? It seems counter-cultural to see ourselves as simply human beings, rather than as “highly functioning” or “highly productive,” labels which could apply to robots. Now that I am middle-aged and injured again (e.g. fractured wrist), I am also more aware of my fragility and weakness. It takes longer to build up my muscles once more. My vision and plans exceed my limitations quite often.
There is wisdom in the vision of Jean Vanier when he refers to changing the world “one heart at a time.” My words are read by one person. I meet with one person at a time. Maybe I see a small group of friends. Their words touch me and mine touch them. It is the language of the heart. If a real connection is made, our world may be changed, one by one by one.