Embracing Others

I always love traveling to other parts of the world.  It gives me a fresh view of things.  Recently in Germany, I saw many  different people from all over the world. It reminded me of the Body of Christ in many respects.   While I was happy to see people working together and forging new relationships and growth, I also saw the ugliness of people who do not like other people groups or agree with their practices.

The heart of things seems to come to issues of offense.  Just as one culture values certain things others do not value the same things.  For instance, some cultures do not stand in lines (they rush to push in front in a crowd) and treat traffic lights and signs with little to no respect or attention.  While other cultures are very rigid in respecting not only who got into line first, but many will defend someone else's position in ques or lines and expect strict adherence to traffic law and signs.  Each culture may look at the other as being rude and disrespectful while, in essence, it's not personal at all.  Cultures are just different and value different things.

I have been very sad to find that I have taken offense at times with other groups in the body of Christ.  Some have taken offense with me too!  But, I am learning that I can let go of pre-conceived notions about what others believe and embrace the things that we have in common.  I can also love them and honor them.  If I don't agree with everything, I can just be honest in saying I believe something different with grace, and let it be.  I want to do more of that in 2013.  I'm going to get lots of chances!!

I need my brothers and sisters in Christ and I want to support and encourage each one to be who God made them to be.  I pray for God's wisdom, guidance and revelation in this new year of amazing opportunities.  Opportunities to grow in loving people very different!  Some risk involved in that - but then, can't be a true adventure without some risk!  I'm up for it - hope you are too!