08-08-24

ECCLESIOLOGICAL ETCHINGS
August 8, 2024
I am currently in NW Arkansas, visiting my father-in-law. He’s had some health concerns lately, though he’s doing ok right now. It’s still hard to be so far away from people we love, especially when they are experiencing challenges. We experienced this with my mother, and I know many of you reading this have your own stories. In fact, some of you may find yourself struggling with these questions this very day. I ache for you and pray often for these situations. They are complicated, and no two families are the same. It is important not to bring judgement to situations where we might know only part of the story. We should not impose what we did onto situations that might appear to be similar but, under the surface, are very different. I think about the words from Paul’s Letter to the Colossians, where he wrote, “Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience” (3:12). It is a very interesting group of five words, with humility at the center of them. True compassion and kindness begin with humility, and choosing to be gentle and patient assumes a certain level of humility as well. We live at a time when people make assumptions about others, often seeking to impose their values and experiences on others. What if we started by simply reminding people how much we love them and would walk alongside them in their decision-making? And if by chance they ask for our opinion, we won’t offer our experience as the “right way,” only one way that may or may not be helpful.

With all things, O Gracious and Gentle Creator, provide me with some humility, as I know how easily my own ego and insecurities can impact how I perceive others and their situations. Amen.