September #jammed: Free Grace.

Day 253: How divided are we?

Some of the Pharisees said, “This man is not from God, for he does not keep the Sabbath.” But others asked, “How can a sinner perform such signs?” So they were divided. John 9:16

Listening to my two daughters disagree over the same side of an argument is one of the more frustrating parental experiences of my mom-life.

“NO, I’m doing my math practice first,” one will instruct.

“NO, I’m doing my math practice after you,” the other will retort.

“MOM!!!” they both beg for intervention. And intervention is what they need, sometimes.

“You’re both saying the same thing,” I explain with crazy eyes.

“Ohhhh…..” giggle, giggle, ha ha…. as I pour myself a gallon of coffee at breakfast time.

I referee hundreds of conversations a day, and most of the time it’s because one is thinking of her response before the other is done talking …thus, they don’t ever fully hear what the other is saying …and then don’t want to admit it. It’s like a piece of crazy I can’t fix.

The Pharisees in today’s verse were no better. They were divided, and probably not listening to each other fully …as we adults are not much more advanced than our children in the listening department …I assure you.

They were debating over what the law said and what Jesus did. Laws are important, especially God’s laws, but how often to do we mute someone’s story because we’re stuck on a law …a rule …or a judgement. We can’t get past it, sometimes. We believe they have what’s coming to them …but we need to remember what should be coming to us for our sins, and what Jesus died to give us in return.

When we struggle to understand where someone else is coming from, or to embrace current circumstances, it’s important to look back at the work God has already done in our lives. It’s crucial to remember the cross. Humility is the key to hearing people. 

How much hurt is caused by miscommunication? How much more do we pile on when we dig our heals in instead of apologizing in humility? Jesus died to give us grace, and we are called to extend the same to others. Let’s stop refereeing conversations, stop trying to change people, and love them for who they are …where they are …right now. The rest is up to God …and He can handle it.

Father, Praise You for all that You plant in us. Thank You for watering us with Your word so we may bloom in Your love. Forgive us for our lack of extension of love to others. Help us to be compassionate and understanding people, with hearts like His. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Get the conversation started by commenting below, and let’s encourage one another as we face life in 2017 armed with grace! 

#greatgrace17

Happy Extending,

Megs

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