the discussion…

Jul 20, 2010 | 666 comments

It started as a simple conversation. A discussion, if you will. A discussion addressing ways I had been wronged and how I was not involved in any of the fault. Because really, who ever thinks they’re at fault. We can say, I know I’m partially to blame  for this, but do we really mean it?

Half way through the conversation my index finger extended upwards as if solely responsible for indicating a stop. My head slithered back and forth like cobra coming out of a weaved basket. My voice reached decibels only dogs could hear. And well, I justified why I’m right and everyone else was wrong.

I wanted to hold onto my anger. I wanted to cradle anger in my arms like a newborn and feed it until it grew into the justification I needed to WHOMP on my accuser. But when the accuser loves you and admits fault [and really means it], how can you not forgive?

Admitting the truth is hard for me sometimes. Especially if the truth is about me. My natural inclination is to find all the reasons under the sun as to why I’m justified and, quite honestly, not wrong.

But in the moments following the discussion, I was struck by a question: why do you feel you have to be perfect? It wasn’t asked to be combative. In fact, it wasn’t asked for any other reason than for sincerity. I didn’t answer because I didn’t want the quiver in voice to betray my stone-cold demeanor. But the question stung like a summertime bee.

For if anyone is a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like a man observing his natural face in a mirror; for he observes himself, goes away, and immediately forget what kind of man he was. —James 1:23-24

I know I have issues with perfectionism. But what does it matter if I recognize this issue, yet do nothing to change it?! James cautions us to take a look at ourselves—and change what isn’t good. Basically, there has to be a reconciliation with ourselves; an honest look at where we fall short.

If you will be joining in tonight’s lesson on James 2:14-26, make sure you’ve read the full text beginning from chapter one. Then tune in live at 7PM [pacific standard time] by clicking HERE. Just as a forwarning, I think we need to have a “discussion” tonight. But don’t worry, I’ll keep my volume and sassy attitude down to a minimum 😉 Promise!

A few questions from last week’s homework to answer:

  • What are ways you can put your faith into action?
  • When can it start?
  • List ways you can reach out to someone in need in your immediate circumstances?
  • How do faith and works go together in my life?

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