"But let all those that put their trust in thee rejoice: let them ever shout for joy, because thou defendest them: let them also that love thy name be joyful in thee." (Psalm 5:11)
We live in a world that seems filled with angry hornets. For example, I have a friend we'll call Jerry. Jerry is completely filled with anger and hatred. No matter what happens in the world, it is never good enough. In the thirty-plus years I have known him, I have only heard maybe a total of three or four positive, uplifting comments come from his lips. He spews his venom at everybody. Of course, you know what that means? If he says things about everybody else to me - he probably says things about me to everybody else. That is a common pattern. The world is filled with Jerrys.
I work with the public in the airline industry. If ever there was a place to experience anger and frustration (especially nowdays) it is in the airline and travel industry. If our flights are delayed, it causes havoc (understandably). If they are cancelled - even for bad weather - it is our fault. If we leave early, it causes stress. If the flight goes smoothly, the plane was too warm. Some complain that they have to walk 150 feet to the terminal when they exit the plane. And we won't even get into delayed bags! It seems everyone around us is agitated, and some can't even explain why.
That's what I love about God. His commands and His expectations, while stringent by the world's standards, are very clearly defined and not difficult to abide by. Love Him with all my heart, soul, mind, and body. Check. Love my neighbor as I love myself. Ummm, ALL my neighbors? And, just who is my neighbor? Basically anyone God places in my path or my life. Even Jerry? Oh yes, especially Jerry. Jesus said the well don't need a physician - the sick do. Wow! And, let's face it: we've all been sick at one time or another. The difference is that we know who the Great Physician is and we know how to get to Him. And all He asks is that we fulfill His commandments - love Him first and fully, then love others.
Today that is my challenge to you. Spend time with our Father in heaven in order to get your priorities and heart right, then go forth into the world and love the Jerrys in your life. You may be the only positive person in his or her life. Remember, the demoniac in the tombs rushed to Jesus when He came to shore, and Jesus received him, delivered him, and set him free. You may not get to see the whole process completed. Remember, some sow, some water, some reap, but all share in the harvest. We aren't responsible for the outcome, only our part in the process.
Be blessed.
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