In high school, I chummed with a bright and talented fellow who, in our getting-to-know-you moments, discovered that I worshipped with a different group of Christians than he. We had lots of doctrinal sparring—even after high school. Just for mischief, I asked questions about his theology that were probably accusatory in nature, I’m sure, though I would never blame myself for stirring anger. :<)) He admitted talking to his ministers about my fellowship group, and, loaded with plenty of ammunition, started with the barbs, the arguments, the condescending examples on everything from . . . well, it doesn’t matter. We argued almost every time we got together. It was exhausting.
Arguing wasn’t pleasant, but I was RIGHT! And I had the right to stand my ground. I was in high school, and my level of understanding about practically everything was shallow at best. I was so sure of myself. He enjoyed the jousts. But here’s the strangest part to me . . . now. We were arguing about God’s kindness. In my immaturity I believed that if I were right every time, that would be the greatest form of kindness I could give. As ridiculous as that sounds now, I’ve discovered there are many people who have a similar belief pattern long, long after high school. When older people go after each other to legally harm, they often sue. We can sue each other for practically anything these days. And kindness has nothing to do with it.
In everything we do—sharing a planet with other humans, some of whom are not kind, loyal, tender, etc., we should live exemplary lives. Help others freely—because we can. Give the best of ourselves away when others need it—and they always do—and expect nothing in return. When we are verbally abused (or the like), why not just be wronged? If you believe that statement is lame, I would point you to an interesting Bible passage. There is no need to argue, fuss, fight, or incite others. When we remove from ourselves the urge to retaliate, and replace it with kindness, we act like God. It will change us for the better from that moment forward. Will it change the world?
I once read a quote from a Christian college professor, “Only the soul that ventilates the world with tenderness has any chance of changing it.” That isn’t an exact Bible quote but it’s true. Unfortunately, that isn’t the wisdom of the world we live in, is it? The loudest people of this world demand we see things their way, and if we don’t they call us names, mock us, say we are intolerant and oppressive and have laws passed to make us do what they want.
But why would we need any more laws? Just obey the first ten. And. There is no law ever against loving, patient people, demonstrating kindness everywhere they go, spreading joy and peace at every opportunity, leaving goodness in their wake, and modeling faithfulness for everyone to see. They are the gentlest people you will ever encounter and, even in this twisted world, be known as the poster children of self-control. If we make every effort to live like that we will at last be right . . . every time.
© March, 2019 mypericope.com
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