Acceptance

00606 Acceptance 

"Accept him whose faith is weak without passing judgment."

(Romans 14:1)

"...let us stop passing judgment on one another. Instead, make up our minds not

to put an obstacle in our brother’s way."

 (Romans 14:13).

"Let us make every effort to do what leads to peace and mutual edification."

(Romans 14:19).

 

            Paul’s messages to the Romans make it clear that acceptance leads to peace. Acceptance is required as a piece of Christian love. Our world in 2020 has been dominated by some new experiences; pandemic, the American election politics of hate, Brexit and Boris, and internationally the wars and skirmishes that threaten peace. The final straw triggered here in my hometown, long term oppression based on color.  

            My thoughts this week have been varied. I remembered a 1961 musical by Anthony Newley and Leslie Beicusse, “Stop the World, I Want to Get Off.” It was a good title, a tongue in cheek musical, and it is sad that here in the new millennium it still rings a bell! 

              On a more positive note, in 1955 Jill Jackson-Miller and Sy Miller wrote: “Let There be Peace on Earth”. Wow, that would be great.  

            You (We) are responsible! Each of us plays a role in some way. By not speaking out or by speaking out. We can go either way. By not making amends when we messed up or by not forgiving when wronged. Yep, none of us is perfect! So, let’s try a bit harder, let the peace on earth begin with you.            

Thought for Today: Let’s focus this week on our contribution to peace through Christian Love.  

Prayer for Today:  Dear Lord, we pray that we may learn to love others under any conditions and that we may personally contribute to a caring and loving world.

Amen.