A Point or A Difference (03/27/2025)

I was flustered. I was irritated. I’d worked so hard to make the project a success and a particular person was doing everything she could to undermine my efforts. As I vented to my friend, she listened to me without interrupting. When I finished my railing, I asked, “So, what should I do?” She was still for a few seconds then she calmly asked me a question that truly changed the trajectory of my life. She asked me, “Do you want to make a point or a difference?”

To this day, when I am trying to live the loving life I feel we are all called to live by our Redeemer and LORD, and I run into individuals who put up roadblocks, bent on making that path difficult, I remember my wise friend’s words. Is it about me and I want to make a point? Or is it about living the life the LORD calls me to live and making a difference in His name? If it’s the first, there will be a scene or at least a spat. If it is about the second, I will set down my pride and my desire to “make a point.” And I will pick up in its place my cross and follow in the footsteps of my Savior.

Jesus was always honest. He didn’t try to fool us with promises of easy sailing or walks in the rose garden. He always told us the truth and the truth is that “the Way” is neither easy nor all about us. Along the way, we must carry our own crosses, endure our own sufferings. There will be those who reject our efforts for our LORD as there were those who rejected Him. We only have to look for a moment upon the image most associated with Him, the crucifix, to realize this journey in His name with the help of the Spirit will involve some difficulty and some suffering. But He also promised, “I am with you always.”

As we continue our journeys this Lenten season, may we have the grace to remember our loving Savior’s words and examples. And when we encounter the obstacles, no matter how personal they may appear, let us draw to mind our loving LORD and persevere. Let us not stoop to returning blows or insults or impediments for others. Instead, let us seek to continue in His footsteps. It will make all the difference in our lives. It will most probably make a difference in the lives of others to His honor.

Until tomorrow, let us all love well.