Read: Ephesians 4:2-3
Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. (v. 2 NIV)
In the world of cable news and talk radio, politics is played out much like old sports rivalries. The two teams have a blind hatred for each other, often regardless of truth, reality, or common sense. The current “losing team” (whoever is out of power) usually spends most of its time abhorring, disparaging, and making up lies about the opposing side. Political pundits create caricatures of their rivals and then attack them. And too often we mistake this kind of behavior for hard news, which is like mistaking a pep rally for the actual game.
Ephesians 4 calls us to be humble, gentle, and patient. It says we are to make every effort to be unified and peaceful. Unfortunately, we aren’t very good at this when it comes to politics. We often do the opposite, continually looking for reasons to call names and point fingers.
As we strive to be the people God calls us to be, we might consider flipping off the radio or television the next time that inflammatory talk show host comes on the air. We could remind ourselves that everyone is created in God’s image, has value, and should be given respect. God doesn’t make caricatures; he only makes people. Can you recognize his image, even in people who disagree with you?
Prayer: Lord, help us to bear with one another in love, especially when we disagree.
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