A few months ago, as the coronavirus raced across the United States and people started hoarding toilet paper, paper towels, and paper napkins, Shannon decided to do something different.
She told me that for meals, we were going to use the paper napkins that had been stored in our cupboard for years. By using our old napkins, there would be napkins at the store for others to buy.
Yesterday at breakfast, I had a Christmas themed napkin. It said: “Dear Santa, All I want is a fat bank account and a skinny body. Please don’t mix it up again like last year!” This got me thinking.
It would be great if I could blame Santa for a fat body and a skinny bank account. But Santa is not the one who shoves food into my mouth. Also, Santa is not the reason for my impulse buying. It’s all me.
While life would be a lot more fun if I could blame others for my mistakes, it doesn’t work that way. The very first people in history are a good example.
Adam blamed Eve. Eve blamed the snake. Ultimately they blamed God. God didn’t buy it. The same is true for us today.
As I look at the protests that are engulfing our nation, I can honestly say I didn’t put my knee on George Floyd’s neck. It’s not my fault society has erupted in anger and pain. I didn’t do it. Don’t blame me.
But (and remember But means disregard everything I just said) I have to admit, I am part of a society that practices discrimination. I truly believe that I have had advantages afforded to me because I am white and male. And by not continually speaking out against racism, sexism, and every other bigotry that exists, I am part of the problem. Luckily, God has given me the opportunity to do my part to make it right.
John said, “If we claim, “We don’t have any sin,” we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. But if we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and cleanse us from everything we’ve done wrong. If we claim, “We have never sinned,” we make him a liar and his word is not in us.” (1 John 1:8-10 CEB)
The first step in making things right is by admitting we are part of the problem. Only then our nation can begin to heal.
Prayer: Dear Gracious Heavenly God, open my eyes so I can truly see. I open my mind so I can truly understand. Open my heart so I can make a difference. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.
While we didn’t start this mess, we are a part of the problem. I believe God wants us to make it right.
I pray your day is filled with joy and laughter.
Tom Robbins
Daily Devotionals by Dr. Tom Robbins 