Do Unto Others ....

Scripture: "In everything, therefore, treat people the same way you want them to treat you, for this is the Law and the Prophets." (Matthew 7:12)

So I was watching this program on TV, (are all my blogs beginning to start that way?) and it was called "What Would You Do?" The basis of the show is an experiment in human nature and sociology. Actors are set up in different, negative, situations in different locations around the United States, and hidden cameras are put in place to see if anyone will intercede for individuals in need or in potential danger. Actors portray different scenarios, such as a blind person (a blind actor) at a bakery being short changed by the cashier (in this case, another actor); a man and woman (both actors) get into a loud argument in a park, and the man threatens physical harm to the woman; a woman demands her two children (all actors) out of her car in anger and frustration for fighting in the back seat, and yells at them to walk home, and drives away, returning minutes later.

In all scenarios, the hidden cameras capture people's reactions on the street: facial expressions, how they lean over and talk to whoever they are with, some call 9-1-1, some turn away and just keep walking, and in some cases, people step in for the person who is being downtrodden.

Watching this program really put a check in my spirit. I am a sensitive soul and fearful of confrontation due to a difficult childhood. At times I can barely defend myself. But as I watched each scenario, and the reactions of others surrounding the situation, I was touched by those who had the gumption to stand up and SAY something. The cashier was reprimanded by some for his sarcastic remarks towards the blind individual and his short changing shenanigans. Sometimes people stood rightfully between the woman and the man who is threatening harm. In one case, people created a barrier between the wayward mother and the children she ordered out of the car moments before.

I can't help but think of that slogan made popular in the 90's: WWJD. What Would Jesus Do? Are we not called to be His hands and feet? Are we not called to be His Light in the world? Proverbs 21:13 clearly states, "Whoever closes his ear to the cry of the poor will himself call out and not be answered." James 2:15-16 says, "If a brother or sister is poorly clothed and lacking in daily food, and one of you says to them, "Go in peace, be warmed and filled," without giving them the things needed for the body, what good is that?"

In my heart of hearts, I don't think Jesus is talking specifically of the financially poor or literal brothers and sisters. But rather those in need, in it's many shapes and forms, around us.

Being extremely introverted, shy and afraid of confrontation was foisted upon me during my upbringing. I had my will, voice and self confidence stolen from me by others who meant well, but destroyed part of my spirit. Normally, I am one of those individuals who stands by for a moment, watches injustice, and slowly slinks away, hoping someone else will step in and make it right.

And yet, I am now in a ministry at my church that is helping people come to terms with injustices they have suffered in their lives. How can I minister to these people with a heart that knows given the opportunity, I would likely slink away and not say anything on their behalf?

I've had an eye-opening moment in my life. I'd certainly want someone to speak up for me should I be standing in front of a very angry man who is belittling me and wanting to do harm in the middle of a park. I'd want someone to say something if they saw someone taking my stuff behind my back.

I no longer want to say I am a product of my childhood but rather - I am a new creation in Jesus Christ. I pray now, that He will give me boldness to speak up for those who can't speak up for themselves. To stop injustice when I see it rather than hoping someone else will do it. If it's too dangerous, to at least pick up the phone and dial 9-1-1. It's up to us all to be His example and stand in for those to weak to hold up their own heads.

Courage is not the absence of fear, but rather the judgment that something else is more important than fear. ~Ambrose Redmoon

Prayer request: Those of us who are afraid of confrontation, afraid of "getting involved" when something bad is happening to someone else - pray we develop a God-given sense of courage. Let righteousness override any fear we may be holding.

Prayer: Father, we lift up those who are too weak to defend themselves, and we ask You, humbly, to help us - Your people - to stand up for them when we see cause. Help us to not hesitate to stand against injustice, and instead, to stand for Your righteousness! We can do all things through Christ, Your Son, who strengthens us!! Amen