May 27, 2015
Time to Speak Up
Mary Southerland
Today’s Truth
We will speak the truth in love, growing in every way more and more like Christ, who is the head of His body, the church (Ephesians 4:15, NLT).
Friend to Friend
With a twinkle in his eye, our seven-year-old grandson said, “Mimi, do you want to play me in a game of soccer?” I grinned. “Sure, Jaydan. Let’s do this!”
I could see the wheels turning in his handsome little head as we headed outside. He was already planning his victory dance. And the boy can dance.
But I have a standard to uphold.
I am Mimi.
When I wrestle with our four grandsons, I still win.
When I play softball with the grandchildren, I still hit the ball the farthest.
I can throw and catch a football with the best of them … them being our grandchildren.
Oh, I know my championship status won’t last long, but I will ride this horse until it dies. And then I will find another horse to ride. I have my ways.
Jaydan grabbed his soccer ball and patiently began to explain the rules of the game. He was doing a beautiful job. And then I heard it. “Jaydan, come here, honey!” I said. He ran toward me. I gathered him in my arms, ready to protect him against whatever evil monster was coming down the street. I couldn’t see it, but I could hear it.
Our daughter-in-law walked outside. She had heard it, too. “It’s a black Jeep. He lives around the corner and always drives that fast. It scares me to death.”
It was indeed a black Jeep going about 50 mph in a neighborhood filled with children, and some of those children were mine.
Not. On. My. Watch.
I immediately determined that I was the person in charge and on duty.
I handed Jaydan to his mom and ran toward the street just as the black jeep was passing by. I held out my hand, pointed at him, and ever so politely yelled, “You need to slow down!” The look on the young man’s face was priceless. He gunned the engine and kept going. I stood my ground, hands on my hips, and watched him drive away.
Jodi gave me a high five.
Jaydan grinned.
I wondered if my actions had made any difference.
Jaydan and I began our soccer game during which I encouraged a few more drivers to slow down. I was in a zone.
About thirty minutes later, I saw him coming. I walked to the edge of the sidewalk … and just watched. He was going about 15 miles per hour. As his eyes met mine, I grinned and gave him two thumbs up … and then applauded. He grinned and nodded and slowly drove away.
Sometimes all it takes to make a difference in this world is for someone to take a stand. Silence is agreement. I believe it is time for Christians to stop being the silent minority and start speaking up. Jesus did.
Jesus drove the moneychangers out of His Father’s temple. I imagine He had a few words of correction for them as they fled.
Jesus confronted the Pharisees about their sinful behavior and about being bad shepherds of God’s people. The heart of Jesus was always compelled to take care of His sheep.
Jesus often told forgiven sinners to go in peace … but to sin no more. He described Himself as gentle and humble in heart. Jesus spoke the truth gently more times than not, but He always spoke the truth. We need to do the same.
Let’s Pray
Father, I want to grow up in Christ. Please help me learn how to speak the truth in love. Give me the courage to confront wrong, but to do it in a way that honors You and promotes peace.
In Jesus’ name,
Amen.
Now It’s Your Turn
Have you been silent, refusing to correct a friend or loved one because it was the easiest thing to do?
Read Proverbs 27:6 “Faithful are wounds of a friend.” What does this verse mean to you about being willing to confront in love?
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