Ignatius calls us
to go forth
and set
the world on fire.
We embrace this metaphor
because we believe
our purpose
is inextricably linked
to helping others
clarify and attain theirs.
But how do we
set our world on fire
in this age of sickness,
uncertainty,
and fear.
How do we
serve and lead
when we
are disconnected
from each other
and the physical space
that unifies our team.
Who will show us
how to press on?
Lives perish
while the flames
of leaders
around us
dance erratically
in the blistering
winds of change
their lights
flicker
to near extinction
their sparks
barely visible
struggle
to light the way.
We cannot wait
for them
to lead.
Let us turn
to our God
and
to the sacred light
of the Holy Spirit
that burns
in
each of us.
Let our spirits
draw closer
to each other
in spite of
the distance
between us
and march boldly
into tomorrow.
Maybe it helps
to imagine
this time
as a dousing
of gasoline
tossed onto our
already steady
burning flames
of
purpose and love.
Let this accelerant
consume and quicken us
for the greater good.
Shine on
my friends
may the bright flames
of our spirits
burning in unison
create a bonfire
that
sparks hope
ignites faith
illuminates love
and lights the way.
In this uncertain age
a time when
our brothers and sisters
yearn for
peace and light
we are called
and stand ready
to do magis
to do more
than we did
before.
To
burn
brighter.
