From "Either/Or" to "Both/And"

Today's readings: Ps 97, 99, 100; Hos 4:1-10; Acts 21:1-14; Luke 5:12-26

When we argue, typically we are less interested in understanding another person’s point of view, than convincing someone we are right. How often have we felt that if only we could find the perfect combination of words, we could sway an opposing viewpoint? We almost can’t believe someone could disagree with us yet still hold a legitimate opinion. When we move out of the realm of numbers, statistics and case studies and into the realm of faith, opinions may be all we have. The faithful community can survive - and even thrive on - differing perspectives by remembering God is present in all persons and situations.

In today’s reading from Luke, Jesus cleansed a man of leprosy and “ordered him to tell no one” (v. 5:14). Luke doesn’t directly tell us the man disobeyed, but he does say “more than ever the word about Jesus spread abroad” (v. 15). Christ had to go into the wilderness just to find solitude for prayer. However, the man’s disobedience increased Christ’s reputation and following. They had different ideas on how to respond to the miracle, and in the middle of this difference the Spirit worked.

When Paul was ready to leave Caesarea and return to Jerusalem, the prophet Agabus warned him the Jews in Jerusalem would capture Paul and turn him over to the Gentile authorities. Naturally the people did not want him to go. But Paul was “ready to be bound and even to die in Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus” (Acts 21:13). God’s love was present both in Paul’s friends, who wanted him to remain safely with them, and in Paul, who valued his mission over his personal safety. We can imagine the discussion was a lot more heated and heartfelt than Acts describes. In the end, Paul and his friends can agree on one thing: “The Lord’s will be done” (v. 14).

In our homes, our churches, and our world, people of good faith will have very different opinions. Faith sometimes means dwelling in the mystery of God working toward seemingly contradictory purposes. In most cases, we can accommodate each other without compromising our integrity or faith. Sometimes, we may juggle internal contradictions. God is in all of it.

Comfort: We know that all things work together for good for those who love God (Romans 8:28).

Challenge: Ask someone’s opinion without offering your own.

Prayer: Glorious Creator, thank you for the complexities of life.

Evening readings: Ps 94, 95

Tomorrow's readings: Ps 101, 109; Hos 4:11-19; Acts 21:15-26; Luke 5:27-39