The reading for today is a hodgepodge of the smaller books of the NT. But just because they're small doesn't meant they're not worth reading and understanding - most of all following.
Consider this gem from Jude: have mercy on those who doubt (v.22).
Those who are around the church a lot can have a little bit of Pharisee in them toward those who doubt. I know pastors like this (I've been a pastor like this). I know members like this. There is just not much room in their lives for the people who are struggling with a particular doctrine, text of Scripture, or practice. They doubt.
And Jude says to have mercy.
Not apply a warm-compress of another Bible verse and call in the morning. Not dismiss them as "just like the disciples" to whom Jesus spoke but they still didn't understand. Not to warn them that they're sinning by struggling. (Yes...I've done all of these...to my shame)
Have mercy. Take pity. Show compassion.
The struggler may be struggling because of something unknown to me - or even them! The weary one may be weary because there's a home-life that sucks energy like a blackhole. The slow one may be slow because of all the baggage being carried on the way to obedience.
Have mercy. Take pity. Show compassion.
Does that apply to you anywhere today?
No comments:
Post a Comment