Do Something (and let it shape you) - May 16

Today’s Readings: AM Psalm 56, 57, [58]; PM Psalm 64, 65; Lev. 16:1-19; 1 Thess. 4:13-18; Matt. 6:1-6,16-18

One of the interesting and more unsettling elements of an election season is the extreme positions of candidates.  Most people I know, and maybe this is a product of being around a majority of Episcopalians most of the time, find the extreme ends of both sides of the spectrum to be rather alarming.  One of the observations I have found to be true, especially in Alabama, is the idea that a candidate must say something in order to get elected, even if that person won’t actually follow through.  Candidates that might be relatively moderate will say things in campaign ads that seem more extreme, even if they quietly do not hold that exact position.  This points to a truth that is hard to admit: culturally we have reached a point where our words sometimes mean more than our actions.  This is cause for concern. 

One of the theories or principles of Christian Ethics and Moral Theology centers on our understanding of virtues.  Virtues are values such as charity, hope, compassion, and truthfulness.  We develop these virtues by our practice of such values.  If one wants to become more compassionate, they practice compassion until their lives look (and are) compassionate.  So when we don’t tell the truth, it shapes our understanding of ourselves and others to not be truthful people.  It’s hard to regain that confidence because our actions have other purposes than the values they convey underneath about who we are as people.  To be moral and faithful people is to align our actions with the values we hold true and then let those values shape our lives.   

As I read today’s passage, some of the same principles are at play.  Jesus is warning people about practicing their piety in public.  The reward they seek is the affirmation of the community and not actually becoming more pious people.  Whereas going into one’s room, shutting the door, and praying will actually make you a more faithful person. 

In pastoral counseling, I often am asked questions about how to handle situations, and how to be a different person either in relation to a child, parent, or spouse.  The answer is never a verbal answer to the world, but instead a simple action.  If one wants to be more forgiving, practice forgiveness.  If one wants to put less pressure on their child, then put less pressure on their child.  Words are meaningless, but actions will actually change us, especially in the long view. 

We are not our mistakes or imperfections or worst decisions.  We are children of God willing to be molded into who God has called us to be.  So do something that aligns with what you believe and let that action shape who you are and who you are becoming.  God isn’t finished with any of us quite yet!

John+

Questions for Self-Reflection:  What values or virtues are most important to you?  How do you rank them?  When have you taken action that runs against your held virtues and values?

Daily Challenge: Do one thing today that you wouldn’t normally do for the purpose of letting that shape who you want to become.