“So, as those who have been chosen of God, holy and beloved, put on a heart of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience; bearing with one another, and forgiving each other, whoever has a complaint against anyone; just as the Lord forgave you, so also should you.” Colossians 3:12-13 (NASB)
Early on a Saturday morning I chose to drive to a park for a walk with my grandson, soon to be 4 years old. I had gone to this park before; in fact, just a month ago. I was confident I knew the way. I didn’t need to check google maps, why bother. But now, 10 minutes into the trip I was confused.
I drove through a residential area of twisting streets, not recognizing any landmark. Finally, I did a U-turn, pulled over to the side of the road and stopped. I wondered, is this old age? Am I losing it? Why can’t I do this?
“Papa, why are we turning around?”
I slowly inhaled, exhaled, looked down into my lap, gathered my thoughts, and mumbled, “Papa made a mistake.”
“That’s okay, Papa, we all make mistakes.”
When have I heard this before? Not from my parents. Not from my peers. It’s not a part of my self-talk. Actually, I’ve never heard anyone say, “It’s okay, we all make mistakes.”
People can be so harsh, critical, sarcastic. I know I am.
J. C. Ryle, an Anglican bishop of the 1800’s, admonished his congregation: "Our Lord has many weak children in His family, many dull pupils in His school, many raw soldiers in His army, many lame sheep in His flock. Yet He bears with them all, and casts none away. Happy is that Christian who has learned to do likewise with his brethren."
Lord, help me to bear with the people you bring into my life today. I know I will be challenged to think the best of them. Help me to rely upon Your grace to do so.
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