Love with Gusto, Act with Vision

I'm reading Ronald Rolheiser's Holy Longing for, I don't know, the 4th time maybe. I have been stimulated and refreshed by his writing on the detriment of divorcing moral piety and social justice. As I pondered his thoughts I realized the negative impact of personal faith and rugged individualism. There is a need for the integrated thinking and view of the east to infect the disintegrated world of the west. Is it possible to experience individual piety or "moraless" justice?

There is a lot of busy movement in the world deemed to be helpful, but in the end really is not. Haste, more often than not does lead to waste - of resources and life. The need for thoughtful response to world issues via integrated thinking is quite significant.  However, lack of or half-hearted engagement in the world's brokenness is equally detrimental.

Response to human needs should be with gusto anchored in and guided by a vision of life restored. I picture a kite with a string and tail or a hot air balloon with a controlled fire. Love with gusto, act with vision. When giving into generational poverty is with no questions, accountability or coaching it is life-detrimental and selfish - guilt relief is what I tend to call it. When there is a lack of giving out of cynicism or a childish attitude of "mine," it is life-destroying and selfish - arrogance.

Action must also avoid avenues that are simply paved by what I can do. I alone can do very little. We together can accomplish much. When strengths, knowledge, resources, relationships, etc. are pulled together into intentional and collaborative action, driven by selfless love and a vision for life-restoration, we all become better people in community.

If you claim to be a follower of Jesus, his way is to love with gusto and act with vision in and through you. Take a look. What do you see?