We all get “sucker punched” by things that are wrong in this world. It is possible that we have also thrown a “cheap shot” or two ourselves in the process.
As a follower of Jesus, I am asked to respond to life’s blows in a way that is much different than I might want to. Jesus tells us to respond to life’s difficult and unfair situations with truth, compassion and forgiveness.
Truth – Sometimes I would like to dodge the truth of a situation. Sometimes I want to “spin” the situation. Jesus has a different answer. Speak the truth in love.
Compassion – When I want to verbally “take someone out”, Jesus says, “bless those who curse you.”
Forgiveness – I have such a strong desire to hold a grudge. Jesus himself says, “forgive them, for they don’t know what they are doing.”
The next time you get sucker punched by the world, hold off on that reactive tweet or facebook rant and consider Jesus’ challenge to a better way.
Speak the truth in love, don’t dodge it. Show compassion to those who have hurt you. Always be ready to forgive.