LAUGH AT MEDINA IN NOV., 2010 FOR TEXAS INCOMPETANT SHE IS FOR ELIMIINATION OF POOPY
Today’s Scripture
If anyone is detected in a transgression, you who have received the Spirit should restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness.
-Galatians 6:1 (NRSV)
PAUL had received a report of rivalry and jealousy among those of the Galatian church. Paul instructs them to “gently” set right those who have gone astray. He reminds them that they now belong to Christ and instructs them to act accordingly.
It can be hard to remember Paul’s instructions when we see Christians who aren’t living as we think they should; anger and condemnation are more natural than open-hearted acceptance. But Christ forgave even those who crucified him. How can we not be forgiving and understanding of those who merely offend us?
I sometimes hear people in church who complain about those whose political perspective is different from theirs. Dialogue might bring healing and understanding. Love could heal separations. Giving others the same right to an opinion that we want for ourselves can take the place of creating walls. When we refuse to fall into the mindset of “us” and “them,” we have a better chance of coming to the truth.
Jesus gave two commandments: love God and love one another. (See Matt. 22:37-40.) Love is stronger than opinions.
Richard Woodard (Washington, DC)
Prayer
Lord, help us to set love above politics, race, nationality, or anything else that can separate us from one another. Amen.
Thought for the Day
God tells us to love those whose actions and opinions are completely opposite to ours.
Prayer Focus
Those I have offended