Isn’t it about time to grow up?

“Here’s another old saying that deserves a second look: ‘Eye for eye, tooth for tooth.’ Is that going to get us anywhere? Here’s what I propose: ‘Don’t hit back at all.’ If someone strikes you, stand there and take it. If someone drags you into court and sues for the shirt off your back, giftwrap your best coat and make a present of it. And if someone takes unfair advantage of you, use the occasion to practice the servant life. No more tit-for-tat stuff. Live generously. “You’re familiar with the old written law, ‘Love your friend,’ and its unwritten companion, ‘Hate your enemy.’ I’m challenging that. I’m telling you to love your enemies. Let them bring out the best in you, not the worst. When someone gives you a hard time, respond with the energies of prayer, for then you are working out of your true selves, your God-created selves. This is what God does. He gives his best-the sun to warm and the rain to nourish-to everyone, regardless: the good and bad, the nice and nasty. If all you do is love the lovable, do you expect a bonus? Anybody can do that. If you simply say hello to those who greet you, do you expect a medal? Any run-of-the-mill sinner does that. “In a word, what I’m saying is, Grow up. You’re kingdom subjects. Now live like it. Live out your God-created identity. Live generously and graciously toward others, the way God lives toward you. (Matthew 5:38-48 MSG)

What do little kids do? They fight back and demand to be served. They play with their friends and ignore others. But what about me?

Jesus says use any occasion when we’re treated unfairly to practice the servant life. Why? That’s what he did. That’s what God does. God loves me fully knowing how often I’ve treated him unfairly. God freely offers his love to even the worst sinner on earth. Then who am I to withhold my service and kindness to someone just because I didn’t get my way?

Why do I respond negatively when someone cuts me off in traffic, a colleague doesn’t respect my work, or a family member points out a fault? Because I haven’t grown up. More specifically I am measuring everything according to whether or not it brings immediate benefit to me without regard for the situation of others.

Why does someone cut me off in traffic? Maybe they’re late for an appointment, didn’t see me, or are simply rude. Like Christ, my heart should go out to those who are not experiencing the peace I should have no matter the traffic conditions. Why does someone disrespect others? Often because that person lacks a good self-concept and is looking for a way to feel better about himself. Like Christ, I should look for ways to encourage him so that he feels no need to lash out at others. Why do family members make cutting remarks? Often because they have been hurt themselves and bitterness has taken over. Like Christ, I should understand their pain and seek ways to turn bitterness to joy.

In short, I need to grow up. If I am made whole in Christ, my daily circumstances should not affect my disposition. If I am like Jesus, my position is servant. Servants never demand their own way. Their interests are in others. Self-interest is not only put aside, it’s not even considered. It’s time for me to act as the Kingdom subject I am and to live generously and graciously toward others, the way God lives toward me.

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