Journal of Sacred Work

Today's meditation was written by Cathy Self, Senior Vice President for the Baptist Healing Trust.

"We must combine the toughness of the serpent with the softness of the dove, a tough mind and a tender heart." Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

"So be wise as serpents and innocent as doves."   (Matthew 10:16b, NRSV)

Jesus' saying as echoed in Dr. King’s words may have emerged from the presumed shrewdness of the serpent especially as held in the Judeo-Christian traditions. In the days of Jesus’ teaching, the word ‘wise’ was likely understood to mean the practice of common sense or of having sound judgment. It was probably meant to refer to a person who is thoughtful and perceptive, realistic in appraisal, astute and discerning; many scholars believe it did not refer to the crafty shrewdness of one who intends to do harm to others.

The dove, on the other hand, was believed to have no bile according to the natural science of those times, and became a symbol for the early Christians of all kinds of virtues. Some suggest those virtues include sincerity, loyalty, gentleness, compassion. These virtues were believed to be qualities that rise from an open heart and Love itself.

So what do a serpent and a dove have to do with us? It seems especially so, that in these times of change, and especially if we seek to live and lead from Love, we must be both tough minded and tenderhearted. In a recent conversation with a leader facing a difficult decision to reduce staff in order to keep a ministry open, both tough-mindedness and tender-heartedness emerged. A somber attitude of the impact of his decision was clear, accepting the reality of a decision that had to be made. His heart spoke just as loudly when he shared plans to make sure than each person directly impacted would be supported and provided for with access to extended severance pay, outplacement services, and counseling. This wise and loving leader also spoke of making more effort to be with his team, listening, encouraging, providing information and answers to their questions as honestly and completely as he could. He seems to be one who can listen to what is being said or not said, without imposing his own feelings and thoughts. In the midst of change, his sight seems focused in the present yet looking ever forward, bound by hope, faith, and Love.

Rev. F. Harry Daniel, in a sermon delivered at Second Presbyterian Church in Lexington, KY has said “A tough mind without a tender heart is cold and detached. It never truly loves. It is hardhearted and uses a crass utilitarianism which values others according to their usefulness.” Many of you may be in places where tough decisions are being made. Each of us, whether as leaders or teammates stand able to reach out and respond with great care and compassion. These times of change for our organizations, our communities, and our country will not be without hard decisions and hard work, uncertainty and risk. Toughness is needed, and always only with great and tender Love.