Shannon’s cousin lives in Estes Park, Colorado. A few days ago, her husband was shopping at the local Safeway. In order to keep everyone safe, one of the store’s policies is that each aisle is one way.
While most people followed the rules, Jim saw one woman ignoring all the safeguards and walking down an aisle in the wrong direction. When he reminded her of the store’s policy, she said, “I don’t give a sh#%@,” and kept walking. This got me thinking.
Earlier this month, in California, a Target security guard was attacked by two men who refused to wear masks in the store. They broke his arm.
At an ice cream parlor in Cape Cod, customers were angry with the social distancing requirements. They mistreated a 17-year-old worker so badly, she quit, and the owner closed the store.
On April 30, in Austin, a man shoved a park ranger into a lake after the ranger politely asked a crowd to maintain social distancing.
These are just a few examples of the bad behavior brought about by people refusing to follow the safeguards put in place to keep us as healthy as possible. There is even a new name for people like this. They are called Pandemic Jerks.
It is impossible to be a Christian and a Pandemic Jerk. That’s because one is God centered and the other is ME centered.
Those that follow Jesus are not guided by self-centered interests but God-centered interests. God wants us to care for one another. That’s why Paul says, “Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.” (Ephesians 4:32)
Feeling the stress of this new world is no excuse to be a Pandemic Jerk. God doesn’t buy that excuse and neither can we.
Prayer: Dear Gracious Heavenly God, help me live a life that glorifies you. In those moments when I am tempted to act irresponsibly, remind me of my true identity as a follower of your Son. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.
As we begin a new day, each of us has a choice. Do we live for self or do we live for God? Our conduct will show who we serve. Choose wisely.
I pray your day is filled with joy and laughter.
Tom Robbins
Daily Devotionals by Dr. Tom Robbins 