I describe myself as a follower of the teachings of Jesus. But there are ways I’m not a very good follower of those teachings. Let me explain.
The following is a text version of this posting.
I describe myself as a follower of the teachings of Jesus. I’ve studied a wide range of spiritual and religious traditions. Yet, I find that my spirit is most grounded in the wisdom of Jesus’ message.
Some people think the teachings of Jesus are soft. His message is about love peace and caring for others. He’s the Good Shepherd who calls to his flock. He described God as a loving father who accepts both the prodigal son as well as the self-righteous older son. God is also the baker woman who kneads yeast into bread.
While I describe myself as a follower of the teachings of Jesus, I’m not going to claim to be a very good follower. It’s easy enough to be loving toward the people I like, especially those who are like me and share my values and ideals. But loving my enemies? Doing good to those who hate me? The teachings of Jesus call me to love conspiracy theorists, homophobes, racists, and all kinds of people whose values are opposite to my own. How can I love those who actively hurt others? How can I forgive them for what I see as bringing harm to others and the planet? Honestly, when I consider what the teachings of Jesus say, I find that I’m probably not a very good follower of those teachings.
This isn’t a solution, but it helps me to remember that the people I have difficulty loving are first and foremost people. They are more than the views and prejudices they espouse. I’ve learned that as a follower of Jesus, I need to remember that all people, the ones I can easily love and the ones I find challenging, are made in the image and likeness of God. Whatever I do to any person, it’s the same as doing it to Jesus.
I may oppose their political views and attempt to correct misinformation, but I’m still called to love others – all others, not just the ones who are easy to love. Maybe there are times when I don’t love and forgive as I should, but I recognize that this is the key to the teachings of Jesus.
If you’re a follower of the teachings of Jesus, how do you find ways to love and forgive those who hurt you or challenge you in various ways?
Very good thoughts here and it helps to know there is always room to improve. Also it helps me to appreciate the other person as God’s child and respect them even if they have different ideas.