Signs of the Times

The Other Cheek

WARNING: Spiritual stuff

Whoever said “sticks and stones may break my bones but words can never hurt me” was lying. Words do matter. And they can hurt deep. Often, the bruises last longer than any physical wound.

Some young kid called me a dumb*** for doing something he would never do. I was shocked at air of superiority and his disrespect for someone his senior. There’s a lack of self-control and an abundance of deep seated percolating anger. I didn’t retaliate. I bit my tongue. Is that a cop out?

In Luke 6:27, Jesus commands us to “love our enemies and do good to those who hate you. Bless those who curse you and spitefully use you.”

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My wife and I had a chat with an Uber driver who was from Egypt. Quite an opinionated fellow he was. He laughed at dumb America and our moronic leaders — the things they say … the things they do. He claims that he was a Christian but now he’s turned Muslim. Every time he sees the crucifix (the picture of Jesus hanging on the cross), he is reminded of how weak Jesus was. He laughed at the ridiculousness of Christianity. He could only see the arrogant Roman soldiers and not appreciate the depth of Christ’s love to allow the blows on his face, the thorns on his head and the nails on the cross. Is that weakness?

“Don’t you realize that I could ask my Father for thousands of angels to protect us, and he would send them instantly?” — Matthew 26:53

Even though Jesus was bound and bludgeoned, He was still in control of the situation. When Herod threw a tantrum demanding answers, who was in control? When Pilate bent over backwards for Jesus to save himself, who was in control?

What do you do when someone insults you? How do you deal with a bully? What do you do when your Uber driver is a terrorist? You “turn the other cheek.” — Luke 6:29

Yup! We are commanded to do what is right. It’s NOT a request. Who cares if they don’t appreciate your restraint? Who cares if they think you are weak? Who cares if they never grow up? (Of course there are limitations especially when someone threatens your family with a gun but giving up your rights and offering grace is the general principle). You love them because when you do, it is an indication that you are true sons and daughters of God who loves even worthless old you.

When our Uber driver dropped us off at the airport, I gave him an unexpected hug — from a Christian to a Muslim. His face said it all. He didn’t know what to do with that. He must have been puzzled for weeks. He’s lucky I didn’t give him a kiss. ;-D

TGIF people!

Raoul

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Joke of the Week

Thanks to Rodney of Manitoba, B.C. for this joke.

Video of the Week

Thanks to Rodney of Manitoba, B.C. who shared this video of people having a very bad day.

Parting Shots

Thanks to Tom of Pasadena, CA.

Thanks to Mel of Washington. DC

Thanks to Art of Sierra Madre, CA. with this insight that our pets do not use daylight saving time.

Thanks to Peter Paul of S Pasadena