"Be Perfect" (44)

They say never ask of your kids, “Why can’t you be just like your older brother (or sister)?”

I honestly can’t recall ever being on the receiving end of that message. Mom always said I had it good because she had me all to herself the first 5 years of my life. But not hearing those words usually meant there was a good chance I was the subject in the question (i.e. the older brother). Boy, did that carry a lot of weight and a whole lot of responsibility. Not only was I put on a pedestal, the height of which kept being elevated inch by inch as a result of each comment and by my own actions trying to fulfill that image. Don’t get me wrong, I have enjoyed being a role-model to my siblings – hopefully a good one – and to others in my circle of influence, but that title carries much more responsibility and careful living to fill those shoes as one expects you to. To much is given, much will be expected right? And then you carry the additional weight of attempting humility while others perceive you as thinking you boast an image of perfection?

But it is Jesus who actually wants us to be perfect, not the perfection we think is humanly desired and expected however. Think about this: to truly be an expert in something, it must be difficult for many to attain that skill set. So if Christ were to say “be perfect” – the culmination of His character consistently revealed – should we not think that would be difficult to attain, lest to achieve this would take a lifetime of practice and another lifetime to maintain? Think of the Olympian who trains daily for the prize only given to the best that can earn it every 4 years and then continues to practice for the next event in 4 years.

I write all this to say, I am no expert in Christ’s love and humility; it is very difficult. But I will share with you that by His grace it is possible to offer it. I remember this past year where a co-worker continued to persecute me and I tried my best to let it go. Day after day, week after week, I attempted to “deal” with it. Sometimes I replied in disgust and other times ignored it, but both times hoping for the same result to change his actions. No change. But didn’t Christ want to change our heart first only that by a changed heart would our actions reflect our heart?

So one day when all the comments had come to a head, I was about to respond but in a way that would top them all, negatively, angrily, non Christ-like. Thankfully, His spirit found me and I felt prompted to pray. After a few short but deep moments in prayer, I responded to him. “I forgive you.” It was with those words that things changed for the better with each exchange. Why do you forgive me? he first asked. I told him. “Your words have hurt me and tried to cut me, but if I believe Jesus is who he says he is, then I must forgive you otherwise I will carry your words with me. So I forgive you.”

I can say with confidence this moment was the hardest thing I had to do in the past 5 years. Living to Christ’s standard of perfection will be impossible, but because and by His grace I will try.

43 “You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ 44 But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, 45 that you may be sons of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous. 46 If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that? 47 And if you greet only your brothers, what are you doing more than others? Do not even pagans do that? 48 Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.

~Matthew 5:43-48

44 days!