Be Gracious

Psalm 103:8 -The Lord is merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love.”
     I have always been told that I had quite a way with words. I remember in my youthful, less tactful days, a gentleman said that I had the un-equaled ability to respond to less-than-intelligent-discourse in a way that I could step on someone’s toes and not mess up their shine or as they say – I would tell it ‘straight with no chaser’. I have to admit that back in the day my patience for ignorance was nil or next to none. Once I discerned that the person I was talking with was a filibuster, a show boater, a braggart or a liar, I dismissed them and dismissed myself from the conversation. Why waste good listening on foolish talk. 
      In some regards I am still that way today, but at least now I excuse myself and venture on to another part of the room or a more enriching discourse without letting them know or feel that I think they are an idiot. They may not be our cup of tea, but we have to be gracious in how we interact with all of God’s children.
      We all have approached God with foolish talk; whether we were telling God about our plans, our directives, our decisions or belly-aching about our circumstances. We have engaged in show boating when we speak more highly of ourselves than we ought knowing full well that if it was not for the grace of God we would be lost. We have all lied, even if it was only to ourselves about our abilities to handle our lives. Through it all God never gives us his love in a filter. He does not handle us ‘straight with no chaser’. His love is always embraced with not only mercy but grace. We must exercise gracious living when we interact with others. Not everyone will respond favorably but that is not our concern. Covered in the blood of Jesus and guided by our Advocate, the Holy Spirit, we must exhibit behaviors that edify, lift and encourage those that might not know how great our God is. We are a reflection of the God we serve; so always put your best foot forward and be gracious! I strive to get better at it every day...and it is a work in progress. 
     Every day is a good day; it is up to us to make it a GREAT day! Be blessed! Have an awesome weekend. See you Monday! Rev. Dr. JoAnn