Have you noticed how clothing trends and even styles of glasses seem to get recycled? What was cool decades ago, then totally out of style and laughable, somehow squeezes its way back to the forefront?
An author of proverbs wrote, “What has been will be again, what has been done will be done again; there is nothing new under the sun” (Ecclesiastes 1:9).
Unfortunately, that includes sin. Things that we identify as woes unique to the 21st century are sadly a repeat of yesteryear, or should I say yester-millennium. Listen to the advice spoken in 518 BC by the prophet Zechariah. “’This is what the LORD Almighty says: ‘Administer true justice; show mercy and compassion to one another. Do not oppress the widow or the fatherless, the alien or the poor. In your hearts do not think evil of each other” (Zechariah 7:9-10).
We cannot change the world, but we can make a difference to those we come in contact with. Do we treat others fairly? Are we loving and compassionate, smiling at strangers as if they were friends? Do we see those in need and respond with a helping hand? And here’s the biggie! What are we thinking?!
Am I thinking, “I know what they’re thinking!”? Am I assuming the worst, jumping to conclusions, and choosing to be easily offended? Put on the brakes! Let’s go back to “Administer true justice.” Be fair, show mercy, and let things go. Or, if necessary, have a calm discussion.
Turn to the Father who reminds us to seek Him first. Ask for His patience and love and then pour it out on others. There may be nothing new under the sun, but perhaps there will be a new experience for others . . . and for us as we reflect God’s Son.
Pointing the Way ~ by Arrow 