“I have learned that greatness is a mirage, all too often a smokescreen for something truly empty and toxic — but that goodness and mercy are always following us, if we slow down and let ourselves be overcome. That goodness stems not from leisure and ease but from hard work and persistence . . . from dirty hands full of garbage and a face lifted to the rising sun.”- Catherine McNiel
“Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.”- Psalm 23:4 (NIV)
In Chapter 10 (“Trading Greatness for Goodness”), the final chapter of Mid-Faith Crisis, Catherine McNiel opens with the observation that where she is today is not pain free. Neither does she experience radical success or extreme fulfillment. Furthermore, her life doesn’t consist of Instagram worthy, picture perfect days.
However, with all that road behind her, Catherine possesses a better sense of what’s valuable and worth pursuing. The ability to recognize what poisons masquerade as sparkly things. What humble things are deeply alive.
Yet, Catherine and Jason exhort:
“This is where we have been traveling together: the darkest valley, or the shadow of death, as some translations say. This is how it’s going. Yet even here our ancient brothers and sisters implore us not to give up or run away. . . . They ask us to trust God so deeply that we find courage to keep walking, even though we are hurting and afraid — because this gentle shepherd is present even in the midst of suffering.”
In conclusion, the authors note, a shepherd used the staff to catch a lamb that had lost its footing. Or to recover a lamb that fell behind. Above all, the shepherd only used the rod to beat away wolves and thieves. Including those thieves who misrepresented the gentle faithfulness of God.
Hence, our Good Shepherd leads us, fights for us, and keeps us close.
Today’s question: How do you see greatness as a mirage or smokescreen? Please share.
Tomorrow’s blog: “Sit at the table of Conscious Faith”