Why is is that some of the most simple lessons seem more challenging to learn and put into practice?

Recently, I was browsing religion and faith blogs to find some personal inspiration and to make connection with other bloggers with similar interests. I found a number of interesting sites and posts and even discovered a couple of blogs I enjoyed so much I added them to the Cafe’s Favorite Places. It was wonderful to find places of inspiration for the daily journey and places that challenge me to grow in my faith and understanding.

What shocked me during the search, were the number of places I encountered that were, well, the only word I know for it is, “angry.” These were places where it seemed every post was dedicated to something,or someone, the author was against. It seemed like I dropped in on people who were fighting, mad, and frustrated, and everyone of these sites claimed to be Christian.

Now, I do not want to sound harsh or judgmental. Maybe, these authors had a passionate reason for their emotion. Maybe, I just found a few negative sites, and of course, each person’s blog is their place to determine what seems best to post. The experience, however, started me thinking about the number of people I meet who claim to know Jesus Christ, who affirm the presence of Christ in their lives through the Holy Spirit, who also seem to be overflowing with harsh judgment and anger.

To be fair, if you were with me at times when someone dangerously cuts me off while driving, or in similar challenging circumstances, you might be tempted to ask the same questions about me Though, I am getting better. We all have places where our attitudes and actions don’t quite match up to our beliefs, but just because we share this struggle, does not make it acceptable, or something we should ignore. We are called to live a life worthy of the high calling of Jesus Christ, so we should always be seeking to grow more Christlike.

Once, while attending a youth retreat, the leader taught us a cute song based upon a verse of Scripture. I could sing it, but that just doesn’t come across well in the written text. Some of you may know the tune, but the words are what really matters, “Be ye kind, one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake has forgiven you.” This verse from Ephesians 4:32, is so simple in its meaning and direction, yet it seems so difficult to put into practice. I am called, you are called, to be kind, tenderhearted and forgiving, and this is not just a one-time event. We do not offer kindness one day and then check it off of our life list of to-dos. Rather, we are called to make these virtues a part of who we are and practice them daily.

The motivation and the power to live out this verse come from the knowledge and experience of God working in our lives. Since God shows kindness, tenderness and forgiveness toward us, we too, should share that experience with others. In doing so, we become tiny mirrors, reflecting what God does in our lives into the lives of others. When we recognize the grace we have, and continue to receive from God, it becomes easier to offer that same gift to others.

Instead of being known for anger, frustration and criticism, we could be remembered as the people who had compassion, grace and love. That certainly sounds like Jesus, and what would happen if people experienced Christians who took this simple verse from Ephesians to heart and became, as James said, “doers of the word?” It is a simple lesson and yes, it is hard to apply, but the impact we can make for God and for good in the world makes the effort worth it.

May the kindness, compassion and forgiveness of God be yours and may you share them broadly to the glory of God’s name.