Ripe for Right
“We must use time creatively, in the knowledge that the time is always ripe to do right.” – Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
As we approach the Monday holiday in remembrance and celebration of Dr. King, I pray that this will be a moment to pause and reflect not only on where we are but also on what creative possibility lies ahead. Time itself is an act of creation in which God offers us yet another moment to have life. One of the most striking things about Dr. King is his repetitive urging to use this gift of time for the sake of others and the sake of the good for all people. This implies it is never too late; there is always possibility in the time we are given. There are so many ways to accept the call to do right with the time gifted to us.
I particularly love the idea of time being ripe with the potential to do right. When I think of ripe fruit, I think of the juicy sweetness of berries or the perfect smell and taste of an orange or a tomato. Ripe is measured by full potential. Ripe is the robust pinnacle of optimal possibility and fulfillment. I believe Dr. King is right that time is always ripe to do right.
What does this imply? It means that past mistakes don’t have to prevent us from this possibility. This can look like apologizing to someone. It could mean opening or changing your mind to see people anew who were previously labeled with preconceived notions. Ripe time for right can mean being inspired to take care of someone in need. It could mean the seismic shift from self-centered individualism to love-centered selfless care of neighbor.
I pray that in each moment gifted to us, we will hear the amazing possibility that God has created a ripe moment full of potential to turn our attention to do right and care for others in spite of or above ourselves. You have this creative possibility laid before you in every moment gifted to you. Joy is found in fulfilling the loving potential.
We love you and God loves you.