Be an agent of spiritual change

What does it take to be a Spiritual Change Agent in a turbulent world? I have been pondering this question a lot lately; it has invaded my sleep, nudged its way into my quiet moments and, sometimes, slapped me silly during moments of duress. It is not a question that is easily answered. And it is a question that presents itself on the center stage of world events and in the quiet, intimate moments of personal struggles.

Perhaps there would be no faith traditions at all if there had been no agents of change — try to wrap your head around that for a moment!

In the Christian tradition, Jesus as change agent, was hated by those of his own faith. He served with humility, kindness and grace and paid the ultimate sacrifice.

In the Jewish tradition, Moses can be seen as one of the main change agents — raised in robes of royalty only to fight against the brutality those robes waged upon the less fortunate. The result — breaking away and leading the Jewish people out of Egypt.

One of the more recent agents is Gandhi. Living three of the main tenets of Hinduism — non-violence, selflessness and truthfulness, he worked tirelessly to make life better for the people of India and to forge new pathways of peace and understanding.

And in the story of Siddhartha, we learn the beginnings of his transformation into the Buddha after first experiencing sickness, the suffering of old age and death. Witnessing these three experiences filled him with compassion and Buddhism was born.

All of these spiritual leaders share the qualities of humility, compassion, action and faith. All served the greater good and all were challenged by the status quo. And all of them, if I am being honest, were more courageous than I ever imagine myself being able to be. All of them understood the Greek term, “metanoia,” often translated as “repent” but, perhaps better translated as, “change your mind.”

For, it seems that if true spiritual change, true world change, is going to be possible, we probably all need to change our minds about something. We need to let go of old ways and dualistic thinking. As human beings we are all unpredictable and rarely really in control and that is uncomfortable. Some might say, disturbing. But in my work as a minister and in my work with organizations, I have discovered that true change rarely happens without some type of disturbance or suffering. That is what moves us forward.

Or doesn’t. Our choice.

And so, my friends, if we really want to do good in the world, to be a source of hope and strength, living into compassionate service, what needs to change within us? That is really the question. We need to stop looking to the outside and start looking within.

A spiritual change agent doesn’t need to be perfect — thank goodness! We just need to help. To offer mercy and compassion when the world offers none. To love like Jesus, Moses, Gandhi and Buddha. Well, I say “just” but I suppose there is no “just” about it! If there was, everyone would be doing it.

So go make a miracle! Join the ranks of the spiritual change agents. Abide in peace and compassion and be the blessing that you have the power to be!