January 30
Ephesians 4.29-32
29 Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. 30 And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. 31 Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. 32 Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.
Bitterness, rage and anger. How often does that describe our attitudes towards others? Holding grudges about things that happened when we were kids. Being upset with things that took place years ago, or even just days ago. Speaking ill of another because we want others to dislike the person or group the same way we do. We don’t use violence to harm another, but our words do at least as much harm.
What would it look like if we spoke well of people or chose to then remain silent? Maybe it would be shocking to hear how the volume of the world went to almost nothing. Maybe we could get to a point where we would start actually seeing the things in another that are good. We could realize that even in those people we somehow despise, there are good things in them. How would we do with that?
The current actions say that we believe it is our place to correct each person’s wrongs. To tear out the things that are another’s problem and that our corrections will restore them. But this action would say that it is our place to see the things that are good in another and encourage the good. Seeing the benefits of others and encouraging them to build their lives around the things that are their strength.
What will we say to another today to build them up? What words can we use that will bring another to see that they are valued among us; that they are valued and they belong? Find the way of forgiveness, compassion and kindness. Even if we have to hold on to our “constructive criticisms” of others to the very end. Remembering that we belong because of the forgiveness, compassion and kindness of Christ.
Song – Amazing Love
Prayer
Gracious God, you have called us to be a new community in Christ, and yet we remain divided. Forgive us our fear, anxiety, prejudice, and misunderstandings. Strengthen our common bonds and deepen our resolve to promote the unity of your church. Amen.