That’s it! Bob and I are going to have a “come to Jesus” meeting!
This phrase popped up in a Facebook memory the other day – something I shared many years ago after hearing my then boss say it about a co-worker. I knew exactly what the speaker meant – for I had said it myself: “I’m going to lay down the law!”
I find myself wanting to say it currently when I read about or hear people arguing about wearing masks and social distancing to try to staunch the flow of COVID-19 infection.
Why are people so opposed to these small measures that could save lives?! The rising number of people who are suffering and dying lays heavy on my heart. The weight of my sadness and anger manifest themselves as tightness in my throat and tears that rise to my eyes. Like everyone else, I am weary from the battle.
Even as my ire and self-righteousness rise, my spirit within checks my heart and brings a verse to mind.
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” Matthew 11:28-30
Come to me. Oh! The tears of sorrow and anger I had blinked back rose anew. A lump formed in my throat, and I swallowed hard to force it down.
Come to Jesus. I heard it with new ears, and it got me to wondering.
What would it look like if I said this, and lived it, with literal meaning and intent? What would it look like if every time I met or responded to anyone, even when we disagreed, I did so with kindness, gentleness, and love? Without judgment? Especially in these days of division, anger, illness, and death?
What would happen if I filled my days with REAL “come to Jesus” meetings?
Tears rolled down my cheeks, and with them fell the weight of self-righteous anger I had picked up with my sorrow. I wiped the tears from my cheeks. Lord, I prayed, thank you for reminding me to seek you first. You are my resting place. Help my heart remain gentle and humble so my words and actions invite people to real meetings with your love.