A Better Way

When were we taught the best way to deal with difficult issues was to draw up sides and attack each other?  Blame, slander, and vilification of those we disagree with seem to be the order of the day.   Recent debates on health care reform have taught us that some have never matured in the way to resolve differences.   No matter your opinion of whether the bill for reform should have passed, is there anyone who feels good about the spirit of the discourse among our elected leaders?  

Of course, this is not a slam on either political party.  It is on all involved.  Unfortunately, the inability to deal with difficult decisions and controversial issues is not limited to our state and federal elected leaders.  I imagine you might be aware of some other examples also. 

So why would I write about this in the Chimes?  It is because there is a better way.  Matthew 18.  Matthew 18 is a powerful chapter that gives a foundation on how to deal with conflict.  It makes some basic assumptions like respect, forgiveness, honesty, speaking to each other rather than about each other and so much more.  Even when conflict gets to the height of brokenness, Christians are called to treat those we are in difficulty with like tax collectors and Gentiles.  Of course, we know what Jesus did to them.  He died for them; for us. 

I recognize there is a great deal of cynicism as to the possibility for us to positively change the level of debate in our country.  My hopes are not that high. My hope is we will all take time to read and pray Matthew 18.  (Maybe there will one day be a sermon series on it!)  When we have taken this teaching of Jesus to heart, then we can be the voice of faith and holiness when all others are only angry and blaming. 

After all, it is not up to us to save the nation.  It is our work to be faithful to the one who can.