Focus

Slow your breathing and become aware of the taking in and letting out of your breath. Focus on putting things aside so you will be open to what God is saying to you today.

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Read

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Reflect

This passage is challenging. We like to think that we are arbiters of God’s will and that we know all the answers. We know exactly what should be done, how it should be done, and if someone is different, well then they are wrong.  

I was once in a church that (upon looking back) was close to a cult. They practiced “church discipline.” Now, I am not against church discipline, but I am firmly against church discipline when it is used to as a platform to shame one and elevate the status of another. 

Paul writes, “6 My friends, if anyone is detected in a transgression, you who have received the Spirit should restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness. Take care that you yourselves are not tempted. ² Bear one another’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ. ³ For if those who are nothing think they are something, they deceive themselves. ⁴ All must test their own work; then that work, rather than their neighbor’s work, will become a cause for pride. ⁵ For all must carry their own loads.”

What I now know is that in my previous church, “spirit of gentleness” was interpreted as lawlessness. And bearing another’s burdens simply meant helping to pile more and more shame, then “praying” for that person. 

All I can say is, God is not mocked and people will reap what they sow. Discipline? Yes. Grace? Yes. Test your motives when you are judging? Absolutely. God is not mocked.

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Pray

Gracious God, not one of us can stand before you unless you had mercy. You call us into a relationship with you in Jesus Christ. As we have received grace, let us give the same to others. In Jesus’ name. Amen