Tuesday, January 1, 2008
John 18:28-19:11Whether it's on the playing field or in academic circles, ours is a culture built on winning. The tendency is to lash out at those we perceive to be blocking our express lane to success- a coach, a parent, a teacher. But as Christians, we should use a radically different framework to gauge success. It is the example set by Jesus Christ.
If anyone could have pointed a finger of blame at those around Him, it was Jesus. He was the most misunderstood & falsely accused individual in history. Yet He built His ministry on integrity, grace, and submission to His Father's will. His disciples sought to usher in their own version of Kingdom, complete with political freedom from the Romans and personal positions of power and prestige (not necessarily obtained by peaceful means).
Christ's mission led Him to the cross, which looked for all the world like the all-time loss. He took upon Himself all the blame & guilt we deserved. Yet throughout His terrible ordeal, His words were marked by grace, restraint, & love. Even from the cross, He forgave sins (Luke 23:34-43) & showed tender concern for His own mother & His best friend (John 19:26-27).
The next time u want to point a finger of blame at someone, remember the example of Christ. Remember too tt the target of yr anger is every bit as human as u.
When tempted to blame, imagine yrself on the receiving end. I've been paid for in FULL 3:12 AM