Wednesday, May 13
Scripture: Philippians 2:3
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Don’t be selfish; don’t try to impress others. Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourselves.
You don’t have to look far on social media or television to find an “all or nothing” mentality. During these days of uncertainty, many take on the idea that “you’re either with me or you are against me.” Fear can lead to feelings of anger and pride. If you disagree on one thing, you can’t be friends at all. And if you did one thing that someone didn’t like, they may never speak to you again. People will often hide behind the safety of the computer or television screen and say things they would never say face-to-face. This mentality can divide friends and families and cause wounds that run deep.
God offers love and grace to everyone. He sent Jesus so that all the people in all the world for all the days might receive forgiveness of sins. This kind of grace is hard for us to wrap our heads around. When those around us are hurtful or offensive, it’s not always easy for us to forgive. It is sometimes hard to even listen to someone who has caused us pain because all we can see or hear is the hurt they’ve caused.
We have all sinned and fallen short of the Glory of God. And yet when he looks at us or hears our cries, all he sees is the blood of Jesus. That blood covers over our sin and washes us white as snow; we become sin-free and beautiful in God’s eyes. So, in a world that is divisive and argumentative, maybe we offer grace as it has been given to us. When those around us disagree and become belligerent, maybe we take a breath, smile, and speak life as it has been spoken over us. And when pain and sorrow are brought to our doorstep, maybe we ask God to give us the strength to forgive, just as we have been forgiven.
Prayer:
Lord, I thank you for being slow to anger and full of love. Your forgiveness through Jesus is a gift I can never repay. I pray now, Lord, that you will fill me with love and compassion for my fellow man. Show me how to offer grace and mercy as you do for me. Cause my heart to be tender so that I may offer love to my friends and family. Amen.
