Intersection Theology

"May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you the same attitude of mind toward each other that Christ Jesus had." Romans 15:5 NIV

Every adventure out of the house these days is an experience of impatience and short tempers. Yesterday, stopped at an intersection, we heard horns honked from different directions. It was not clear that anyone was doing anything particularly unusual or offensive, so my only conclusion was whatever someone was doing didn't meet someone else's expectation, or they were simply in a hurry. Thankfully, everyone got through the intersection and hopefully arrived at their final destinations safely.

There is no denying God has infinite patience with us, and as sinners, we enjoy his grace. We have come to expect his endurance and encouragement; if he were to act differently, we would be shocked. When Jesus came to earth, human and divine, he displayed these same qualities of the Father. As emulators of Christ, we must do the same for each other. Even though he was genuinely human, can you imagine Christ blasting his horn because he and the disciples were late getting to the Sermon on the Mount? Granted, this may be a silly example, but the point is we should illustrate the same kind of patience and compassion that God consistently shows us to others -- all others.

Gracious God, thank you for your consistent patience and compassion for us. We confess we do not always respond to others this same way. Father, please forgive us once again, and help us become more like the example of Christ. Amen.

Blessings,

Pastor Tim