Tuesday 16 September 2014 Reading: Romans 14:13-15:2 Reflection: It is extremely rare, in our society, to hear of anyone adapting their behaviour to the sensitivities of others. On the contrary, we are often told to ignore what others think and to just be ourselves. But, there is a deep flaw in this thinking, because it assumes that we can be ourselves without reference to anyone else. It ignores the way we are shaped by our relationships, and it denies the deep impact that our behaviour has on others, and, by extension on the world. The Bible is clear that we are all connected to each other, and it challenges us to consider the impact of our choices on others before deciding how we will behave. Even when we find nothing wrong with what we do, if it hurts another person, or hinders their spiritual growth, we should be willing to stop. This is the message of todays reading.As we explore forgiveness this week, it may seem strange to be talking about how our behaviour affects others. But, few of us would consider that we may need to be forgiven for ignoring how our actions may harm others because of their weakness, not our own. Few of us may be willing to change actions that we feel are right, because others feel they are wrong. And few us would consider that we may need to forgive others for the way their weakness restricts our freedom. But, when we seek to follow Jesus, we are called into community, and this means that we have to learn to negotiate our differences. It means that we need to be considerate of each others views, and we need to be willing to adapt what we do in order to avoid harming or offending those around us. Of course, there are times when there are limits to how this applies, but as a general principle, the willingness to be gracious enough to consider others in this way is very important.What do you need to change in your life out of consideration for others today? Practice for Today: It is hard to know how our actions and attitudes affect those around us unless we are willing to listen and hear their struggles, criticisms, and questions. Listening like this is not easy, and it can be painful. But, it also offers great healing and reconciliation. Today, work hard to listen to those around you, and try to act with consideration for their feelings and perspectives. Breath-Prayer for Today: Teach me, Jesus, to be willing to serve you by treating others with grace and consideration.
Posted on: Tue, 16 Sep 2014 03:40:28 +0000