We are now in a constitutional identity and political leadership crucible.
"Crucibles force leaders into deep self-reflection, where they examine their values, question their assumptions, and hone their judgements."(Bennis and Thomas).
Our present situatòn reveals that our political leaders need to undertake a voyage of personal understanding and development. They need to examine their internal action logic, how they interpret their surroundings and react when their power and safety are challenged, as they are now. If they take such a voyage it can transform their capabilities.
"There are times when a leader's deepest longing is to hear a word from the Lord. Beyond the muddle of all our thoughts and ideas and brainstorming sessions, we long for an encounter with God that will penetrate all of that and bring some clarity to our situation." (R.H.Barton). This is where each leader can embark on that journey.
"The truth is that spiritual transformation takes place as we embrace the challenges and opportunities associated with each season of our life."(R.H.Barton)
Our ancestors knew how to do this very well. They were masters of bricolage and that helped them to emerge from the crucibles of their lives successfully. Here is an example:
During the War years when some foods were scarce those who worked in the fields invented a soup called"Man Soup"( started by men)
They carried a pinch of whatever they had at home-flour, cornmeal, sugar, tough- lough- mough, salt beef or corn fish and cooked them with ground provisions and milk. That was so successful that in difficult times it becamea household meal. They emerged from that crucible with new culinsry skills among other deeper insights. On Easter Sunday Jesus Christ vanquished the crucible of the crucifixion and cleared the way that the voyage can be successful, fruitful, joyful and fulfilling.
- Dr. Charles H. Wheatley.