by Jerry Senn
The recent failed assassination attempt on a former president has rightfully shocked us and is causing all of us who find ourselves “at odds” with others politically or otherwise to be more thoughtful, less selfish, and more controlling of our emotions, our words and our behavior.
As James put it, “How great a forest is set ablaze by such a small fire…no human being can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison.” “Be quick to hear, and slow to speak, slow to anger” (James 1:19; 3:5-8).
We may never know what motivated that young man to do what he attempted to do. His young mind was no doubt confused, troubled by many unanswered questions and emotional disturbances. His frustration may not have had a political motive at all. But, something moved him to violence.
But, if indeed he was filled with anger and hatred, though we can’t excuse his actions, we may at least examine our own hearts honestly. Do we allow hatred to gain control of our lives? As James said, “no human being can tame the tongue” and especially if our thoughts are responding to hatred and a spirit of retaliation.
Years ago, Alex Haley wrote the book, “Roots,” which was made into a movie. In it he dealt with the slavery issues that have plagued our nation.
He said this about the dangers of hatred as an enemy to be controlled: “Hate at its best will distort you; at its worst it will destroy you, but it will always immobilize you.” By “immobilize” he meant to keep us from being our better self. It allows us to do not only stupid things but hurtful acts of violence—things we would never normally do when in our right minds.
A careful and thoughtful reading of Jesus’ words gives believers a clear goal and purpose of developing “the mind of Christ.”
“You have heard that it was said, ‘You should love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, so that you may be sons of your Father who is in heaven.”
—Matthew 5:43-44
Current events in our nation provide a strong incentive to read the words of our Lord. Remember, we’re all sinners saved by a merciful Father, who wants us to grow more and more like Him in our daily lives.
(See: Matthew 5:36-48)