Ponderings #3

1. Why is it we do the same thing someone else does but we rationalize our actions as acceptable and condemn their actions as inappropriate? Are we that much better? Or do the rules we are supposed to play by only apply to "everyone" else? Perhaps that is why so many people have trouble with Christianity ... there is a double standard that has been set, not by God, but by everyone that claims the label of Christian. I guess after having this as a topic and then observing it first hand, my mind began to churned with the question, "why?" There is no doubt this is wrong and not the accepted norm as described by Jesus Christ. We are to look past the problems or issues and show compassion just as Paul showed the Thessalonians. But we don't ... we cry foul ... all the time forgetting we are standing out of bounds. Just because we bent a knee and prayed a prayer does not give us any right to assume an air of authority and make decisions until Christ returns. We need to lose the "ME" and replace it with "WE". Compassion should be our mantra not condemnation for violations according to our standard of beliefs. Why did Jesus place such an emphasis on Love? Because that is the essence of being like him. Loving each other even when we are mad, upset, disappointed, punished or scorned by another person. Love isn't something just for a fair or good day, that is the easy way, but it most productive when we show it on the darkest and most difficult of days. Do we need to start over and wrinkle or dress or pants as we kneel and ask forgiveness and strength to start all over? Yes.

2. Another thought process I am chewing on concerns -- Trivial words. How many times a day do we ask forgiveness for messing up or doing something we shouldn't? For most of us, it is many times. Now consider this, how many years has this been going on? Have we trivialized the words "Jesus forgive me ... I won't do it again?" Once again the answer is yes. Kind of like a child saying "I am sorry." They learn the phrase gets them out of trouble but as soon as the memory fades they are right back at it. As adults we are quick to say "I love you." But is it real when you say it or a phrase that ends all conversations or events? Have you ever hurt someone and ended your apology with I love you only to hurt them again in a short time? We have because like sorry it is a automatic response that we know gets results or helps us bypass pain. So then since we trivialize the phrase Love no wonder we trivialize Jesus. He is love and what he did for us was out of love. Let us find compassion and change in our life. Forget the little hurts and pains of others and show unrestrained compassion. Then we might reach a point where asking Jesus for forgiveness will really be a life changing event. If I remember right, accepting his love and salvation made us a new person.