So, sometimes my temptation is to look around and find someone who seems to me to be messing up more than I am. Sometimes my temptation is to justify what I'm doing. Sometimes my temptation is to stomp my foot and feel sorry for myself when I don't get all the recognition I feel I deserve for the good that I do manage to do.
And since I both experience these temptations and too often find the temptations lead to actually doing these things I have one question? Why do I act superior, outraged, miffed and generally snarky because folks around me do these very same things?
So maybe, just for today, I can remember to share with those in need without judging why they are in need. Maybe just for this week I can practice hospitality while staying more deeply grateful for God's gracious hospitality to me than offended when my hospitality is not remarked upon by someone struggling to make it through the day. Maybe I can make July a month where I accept the unfortunate behavior of others toward me with the mercy God shows me.
Well, that sound like a full time job! I may be so busy trying to improve myself I'll have less time to be snippy about other people's tiny, puny, little errors and omissions.
Loving and Forgiving Lord, teach me to live and love others as you live and love me.
“Share with God's people who are in need. Practice hospitality. Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse.” – Romans 12:13-14