The Rebuild: Matthew 5-7ნიმუში

You’re cut off in traffic — again! It’s been one of those days. The coffee machine didn’t work this morning and you’re not caffeinated. Your automatic garage door refused to be automatic and of course, you’re in a rush to get to work. Finally, you’re on the highway and the traffic is backing up as usual but you’re used to this. Then, like they’re the only person in the world who has somewhere to be, (probably a loud black ute) cuts out in front of you. You’re forced to a screeching stop, inches from colliding with the ute. Your adrenaline is pumping and the thoughts in your head are starting to shout. You do all that you can to keep quiet but on the inside, you’re brooding. If only I could pay this guy back, cut him off, make him late for wherever he’s off to.

I’m confident that each of us can relate to that story. Jesus can relate to this story too but in far greater ways. Jesus is the only one who could rightly retaliate against His enemies. However, “for the joy set before him, he endured the cross” (Heb 12:2). Rest in the knowledge that you don’t need to retaliate because Jesus didn’t retaliate against you.

Today, ponder this: How can you apply Jesus’ example of "enduring the cross" in your own life when dealing with difficult or unjust circumstances? Is there a particular circumstance now that you need to deal with? Spend time in prayer bringing your heart and response to Jesus.