We Must Be Nuts

Scripture

Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where he prayed. Simon and his companions went to look for him, and when they found him, they exclaimed: ‘Everyone is looking for you!’Jesus replied, ‘Let us go somewhere else – to the nearby villages – so that I can preach there also. That is why I have come.’  So he travelled throughout Galilee, preaching in their synagogues….  (Mark 1:35-39 NIVUK) 

We Must Be Nuts

Awhile back Susan showed me some letters I sent her when we were teenagers in love. She was at camp, and I was arranging to bring her home along with my brother who is 5 years younger than me. It was embarrassing to read what I wrote – I was a pompous ass and very unkind in some comments about my brother. No wonder he says he’s been in counselling all his life with me as his older brother.  

All these decades later I’m happy to report my brother is actually my good friend and Susan still puts up with me – and maybe I’m less of an ass. I add that last bit for self-defence. But it takes quiet work under the radar, in private conversations to find reconciliation and forgiveness after times of conflict and tension for any good relationship to endure.  

If it wasn’t for marital tension and sibling rivalry Shakespeare and Dolly Parton would have nothing to write about. There would be no theatre or opera, or country music -and yet for some reason a recent book flies off the shelves in the millions with a tale of woe no different than Cain and Abel. 

Our social media madness has removed the power of quiet conversation and behind the scenes measures to resolve conflict and injustice – while building a brand and becoming famous or getting lots of “likes” has been a prime objective for many. My morning prayers often begin with noticing anger, envy or whatever is buzzing in my brain – great barometers to remind me of how much I need Jesus’ help in living healthily.   

A Prayer for Today

Loving God, you became one of us to experience all of human experience. Your siblings and mother misunderstood you; critics attacked you and ultimately humiliating death was your destiny. Yet you found ways to stay close to the Father, and close to your friends and loved ones by forbearance and forgiveness.  Help us live that way too …. For jesus’ sake.