God's Fridge

There is a right answer: “Some think it is all right to eat anything, while those whose faith is weak will eat only vegetables” (v 1). Clearly the strong in the faith “eat anything” and the weak in the faith don’t. Paul makes it clear that there is a right answer to whether a Christian can only eat certain foods or worship on certain days, dress a certain way, worship with certain music, or in a certain place, drink wine versus grape juice… According to Paul the more mature, or strong (v 19) in the faith can “eat” anything and worship anywhere! The less mature or “weak” in the faith are more dogmatic, more easily offended, more distracted by such things.

BUT notice what Paul does next: “What right do you have to criticize someone else’s servants? Only their Lord can decide if they are doing right, and the Lord will make sure that they do right.” There is a right answer, but if we allow God to be God he will make sure to speak to us about what’s right. We are each on a journey moving from “weak” to mature. Remember that you once were “weak”. Be gentle with one another and stay focused on Jesus (v 7) and be sure to walk with him.

When your four year old hands you a picture she drew, you don’t tell her that skies aren’t purple and that mommy is actually not as tall as a tree! You love that picture—even stick it up on the fridge! You especially love the words your child wrote on it, “to dad.” Those who believe that every day is the Lord’s day need to remember that others find meaning in remembering saints’ days and observing the liturgical year, and that “any followers who count one day more important than another day do it to honor their Lord” (v 6). None of our life pictures are perfect yet, but God loves each one. Who are we to criticize what God puts up on his fridge?!

Respond in Prayer

Father, You continue to be so patient with me, yet I have different standards for others. I can be dogmatic, and grumpy with those “weaker” in the faith from me. I can be so impatient with others. Help me to relax in you, and be patient, kind and loving to others on the journey with me. I pray in Jesus' name, Amen.

Cliff Fletcher