9/11

It's been awhile but not for lack of trying.  For some reason, I cannot post anything when using my normal Internet browser.  Technology can be such a frustrating thing.  Much like my blog for many readers.

As we remembered 9/11 yesterday, I was struck by the number of posts I read on Facebook about my friend's hatred for President Obama, Muslims and a host of other people who don't do things just the way my friends want them to do it and was reminded of a principle I learned reading The Shack and was reminded of yesterday as we studied Romans 15 and one of our Elders said, "remember when you are looking at someone you want to put your hands on and strangle, you are looking at someone that Jesus was willing to die for."  

I've too often been on the opposite side of God in my love for people.  He loves them and I'm ticked off at them and hoping for a piano to fall on their head.  If God loves Obama and I hate him, who's side am I on?  If God loves Muslims and I hate them, who's side am I on?  It doesn't mean I approve of what Obama or Muslims do.  It doesn't mean I approve of what many people do who I sit in church with on Sundays who don't act Christ-like the rest of the week either but God loves them and I want to be on God's side so I'm going to love them also.

When those who would be my brothers and sisters in Christ want to bomb, kill and maim anyone who doesn't agree with our way of life, I have to ask what way of life that is - the American way or God's way and which one is most important, which one should be the priority?  

I hope I will learn to love people even when I don't condone their actions or motives.  I hope I'll do a better job of praying for those who persecute me and my fellow man instead of hoping for bombs to rain down on them.  I hope I'll always remember the kingdom of God is where my true citizenship exists and that I'm just passing through as an American.  

I am thankful for those who protect us and keep us safe.  I honor them and pray for their safety and protection from those who would do them harm.  They have my support and I hope no one can doubt that or mis-hears how strongly I feel about those who serve our country in any capacity.  

Even while I support those who protect me from harm, I will not wish harm on those who would hurt me but pray that one day love will rule and that God will be the victor over all.

Grace and peace to you.