14 Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse them. 15 Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep. 16 Live in harmony with one another. Do not be haughty, but associate with the lowly. Never be wise in your own sight. 17 Repay no one evil for evil, but give thought to do what is honorable in the sight of all. 18 If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all. (Romans 12:14-18)
Christianity works because it doesn’t make sense. Not only this, but it is so radically on the fringes, it cannot even view “normal” from where it stands. In a life where revenge is a currency, Christians are called to live in worldly poverty. One look at the popular movies of our time shows this to be true. Man hurts man, man seeks revenge. Forgiveness and blessing rarely enter the equation. Yet this is the beautiful reality in which we are called. Our Father never asks us to do so out of weakness but out of strength. Forgiveness takes a backbone of granite. To look at the one who wounds you then humbly pass over the offense is something extreme. But we know it to be the best way. Feuds tend to disband when one party lays down their rights. When faced with great evil, the Christian’s main purpose is to love with abandon. Our model is Christ who when owed a great debt, chose to pay it Himself.
Another command here we must consider deeply is to understand the mood of those around us. When the world cries, we cry with them, and when they rejoice, we rejoice as well. We don’t attempt to ridicule or speculate, but simply view life from their perspective with empathy and sincerity. Words like “harmony” and “peace” are not just relational suggestions but dynamic calls to a deeper community with those around us. No Christ follower is an island.
Lord, change us. Today may we live this backwards Kingdom out in real time. Grant us courage to forgive, mourn, and rejoice. We lay down our rights and feelings. You are the King of our preference.
Matt simon blog 