The recent events in Ferguson, Florida and New York are troubling examples of humanity. I don’t want to critique specifics, but I do want to make some general lesson observations that influence everyday life. I think these are worth mentioning.
You may not be able to dictate the outcome, but you can decide how you react. Community has a responsibility to civility. We have an obligation to value one another regardless of our disagreements. Everything won’t always go my way, but I have a choice in how I respond to the situation. If I allow others to dictate my reaction, I’ve given them control over me. I can’t do that, but instead choose to respond with dignity, reasonableness and responsibly. We as a diverse nation must learn how to respond to situations we don’t agree with.
Illegal and suspicious activity has consequence. Remember the slogan, “Don’t do the crime if you can’t do the time.” If you engage in illegal behavior you must be willing to accept the consequence.
Always respect authority. We have a huge problem with authority – we don’t like it. Whether it is an abuse of authority or an overstated perception of one’s person rights, society is challenged with how to respond to authority. We’re rebellious by nature and don’t like to be told what to do. Yet, we must honor those in authority over us and it begins by giving respect. Whether we like it or not, we must comply with authority.
Violence is never the answer. An eye for an eye doesn’t bring satisfaction. Violence hurts and unnecessarily injures. No one has the right to wound another. Actually, the damage inflicted upon another scars self.
Value others. Get to know someone “different” than you. Choose to love. People are much deeper than perceptions.
Seems much of discussion is about race. I don’t buy it in its entirety. While it is a factor, I believe the debate eclipses the deeper issues. This is a spiritual matter regarding the sinfulness and depravity of man. It is about the struggle with sin, self, repentance and surrender. We see it in the lack of respect for authority, the pursuing of self, the lack of value for others and the pursuit of the unlawful. These are the core issues. The change begins by loving Christ and demonstrating that love toward one another.
Right on. Preach it, Brother!
Thanks Janet!
While I agree with your approach, I also have a difficult time with those that believe looting and property damage of others is ok just because they disagree. Laws need to be upheld and enforced, until they are changed. That’s why I so strongly believe elections have consequences and while you are precise in a recent sermon that only Jesus is our Savior, Christians should not only vote, but be actively engaged in elections to promote candidates that are the most biblically aligned.
Hey Tom, thanks for the comments. You’re right. I find it amazing that people think it’s okay to demonstrate civil disobedience by looting and destroy physical property of others. And yes, Christians not only should vote, but should educate themselves on their candidate of choice. Thanks!