Just beat it, wouldja?

Instead of losing your energy on hating and fighting, strengthen it by enjoying and getting along. –Anonymous


Facebook can be a wonderful, terrible, awesome, awful place (just like the real world).

I have made marvelous friends there, some of whom I have never met face to face and likely never will. We laugh together; we mourn together. We celebrate each other’s achievements. We keep each other in line when we need it.

But there is this other side to Facebook, as well, those people whom I don’t know who are friends of a friend—or maybe just trolls. They fly by, drop their little bombs, light my fuse and disappear.

Oh, how easy it would be to respond in kind! It might feel so good to stoop to their level and give them a piece of my mind (except I haven’t a piece of my mind I can do without). . . .

Except what, exactly would that accomplish in the bigger picture?

Scripture reminds us that we are called, among other things, to beat our swords into plowshares (Isaiah 2), to take those things which are sharp and dangerous, like words of darkness and rage, and smooth them into something useful and life-giving. In so doing, the Kingdom of God becomes closer to reality in this world.

Next time, instead of responding with sharp words, choose love. It’s not always the easiest thing to do. But it’s the right thing to do. Start beating that sword. It could take awhile.

Monday Many, many studies show that people come to church (or any event or service) because they were invited. Ask God to show you someone whom you could invite to worship. Pray for an opportunity to do so. John 21:26-27

Tuesday Pause and reflect on the unconditional love Christ offers to each one of us, just as we are. Give thanks and rest. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

Wednesday In the beginning, out of chaos the Almighty created order. Where is there chaos in your life? Pray that God would bring peace, comfort and hope to an area of your life that feels out of control. Give thanks and rest. Isaiah 42:5-9

Thursday Who has had an influence on your faith journey? Pause and remember, and consider writing them a note of thanks. Ask God to guide your heart in being a light to others. Pass it on. Acts 2:42-47

Friday John Wesley saw value in small group meetings as a way to deepen relationships. How do you find relationship in your church? Thank God for this family. 1 Samuel 12:22-24

Saturday As you pray for yourself today, listen. Is the Spirit leading you in a new direction? Pray for clarity and for courage to follow faithfully. Exodus 4:10-12

Sunday As we gather this morning to worship, meditate on the words we sing in the hymns of the day. As St. Augustine observed: The one who sings, prays twice. Give thanks and lift your voice! Isaiah 42:10-11

Can’t we all just get along? –Rodney King


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