Sometimes We Just Don’t Have Jurisdiction

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Today’s reading: Matthew 7:1-5

I missed a turn on a busy street  and made a u-turn through the parking lot of a large church this afternoon. Those 30 seconds left me infuriated for the next hour. If I had a smart phone, I’m certain I would have found the pastor’s email address and shot off a snooty letter.

As I drove to the back of the church’s property to make the turn, I saw an all-too-common sight that always reminds me of a famous quote from Mahatma Gandhi: “Oh, I don’t reject Christ. I love Christ. It’s just that so many of you Christians are so unlike Christ.”

The church’s beautifully constructed and creatively landscaped playground was securely locked. And large signs screamed, “No Admittance!” all around the fence.

Ridiculous! I thought.

Meanwhile, the surrounding neighborhood has but two parks, both of which have nothing for kids to play upon and therefore are always empty fields. I’ve often had the sarcastic thought that the city should just plant some corn in those fields and try to make some money off the land at least.

It was a beautiful weekend day outside. I saw at least a dozen children out playing in their yards within a mile of this church. That locked gate and those angry signs were, in my angry opinion, a  blown opportunity for plenty of discipleship.

Infuriating, I say! I was as angry as Jesus in the temple with the money changers.  If the church hadn’t been deserted, someone would have heard a sermon from me!

Fortunately, I remembered today’s reading and calmed myself down before my tongue (or my typing fingers) had a chance to make any enemies.

“Why do you see the speck in your neighbor’s eye, but do not notice the log in your own eye?” (Verse 3)

I will offer no further commentary about this church’s locked playground. I trust that following God’s will is the top priority for this church’s members and leaders, and God has granted me absolutely no jurisdiction in this matter.

When I finish typing this devotional, I intend to spend a few quiet moments with God reflecting on my day, and I am certain this will yield many insights into how I missed opportunities for discipleship today myself.

My jurisdiction is my own life. I will stick to that.  Another quote from Gandhi comes to mind: “You must be the change you want to see in the world.”

Thanks be to God for giving me the courage to change myself.