A few years ago, because I am a delicate creature, my doctor suggested I go on a whole-foods plant-based diet. It has been one of the best decisions I have ever made. Having said that, I do miss cheese and meat. My friends let me know what I am missing.
Yesterday, Chris sent me a beautiful picture of a loaded baked potato. He wrote, “I’m having a big baked potato for lunch in solidarity with you. Just never mind the massive amount of brisket and cheese on top.”
I responded, “Wow. Just remember, while we are Christian and don’t believe in karma, I do know what comes around, goes around.”
Chris wrote, “Hmmm. That was so good it changed my life.”
I said, “Karma’s coming, buddy!”
He replied, “2 Corinthians 5:17 Therefore, if anyone is in Christ (and brisket), he is a new creation.”
I responded, “Karma’s coming. You are tomorrow’s devotional. You’re welcome.”
Chris said, “Remember, my name is Scott Piland.”
This got me thinking.
Karma is a distinctly Buddhist and Hindu concept. In fact, Christians reject the understanding the universe gets even with you. It’s the Santa Claus understanding of life which says if you are good, the universe is good to you. If you are bad, you get coal in your stocking. That’s not what we believe.
I know very good people who experience tragedy. I also know scoundrels who seem to get ahead in life.
Having said that, there is something to the notion you reap what you sow. This is why the wisest of all people said, “Whoever digs a pit will fall into it; if someone rolls a stone, it will roll back on them.” (Proverbs 26:27)
Choose to be gracious, kind, forgiving, and compassionate. Choose to see the other person’s perspective. Choose to go out of your way to help others. Choose to be the best version of yourself.
Will this guarantee your life with be filled with joy and no pain? Nope. Jesus reminded us God does not work that way by saying, “He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous.” (Matthew 5:45b)
How we live our lives is a choice. I truly believe being the best version of ourselves will bring out the best version of others.
Prayer: Dear Gracious Heavenly God, please use me to lighten the heavy loads others carry, bring hope to the hopeless, and joy where there is despair. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.
We don’t do good hoping God will reward us. We do good because God has already saved us. It’s all the difference in the world.
Also, just for the record, with friends like mine, who needs enemies.
I pray your day is filled with joy and laughter.
Tom Robbins
Daily Devotionals by Dr. Tom Robbins 