4:23 – For Me Or The Group?

#faithbites #faithjourney me

Setting

Today, I want to share something that is weighing heavy on my heart. As you know I try to help others first, then take care of myself. Yesterday, I had two conversations / interactions that really bothered me. The first was a post in a 3d printing group asking for suggestions on items to print. One poster, said I post every day asking (which wasn’t true) and that I should use my brain before asking. It struck me as odd as this forum is a community of practice for people to help each other. The second, was a friend of my got the COVID-19 vaccine. I said told them thank you for keeping us safe. Their response was I didn’t do it for you, I did it for me, and I might wear a mask to give you a little sense of protection. That one hurt to the core. I don’t know why. He wasn’t targeting me, but the idea that self preservation or the perception of self preservation takes precedent over helping others.

Maybe I’m weird. (Well, we know I am but that’s a different story). The idea of not working together to help each other is foreign to me. I know that in America we have this exceptionalism to be great, work hard, and reap the rewards. Today’s question is, what is the balance between helping the group and helping ourselves?

Scripture

• 1 John 3:17 – But if anyone has the world’s goods and sees his brother in need, yet closes his heart against him, how does God’s love abide in him?
• Philippians 2:3-4 – Do nothing from rivalry or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others
• James 3:16 – For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there will be disorder and every vile practice.

Reflection

First and foremost, I am not against self-care. We do need to take care of ourselves. My point, and it is supported by the scriptures, is that we should look to help, grow, support, give, and love our brothers and sisters. When I see selfishness, even if it is masked in fear or something else, it hurts me. Maybe I’m overreacting, and maybe these two examples are just minor ones, but I think it’s a systemic issue.

If we are truly Christians who love God and love our neighbors as ourselves, there is no room for rudeness, selfishness, and hurt. The key is we all fail at this and need Jesus to forgive us when we do.

As we end today, remember to share the love of Christ and see how you can help others in love and kindness.

Prayer

Lord Jesus, I pray for those who are hurting right now. Please help them heal and understand that when we love others, we are loving you. It’s easy to become selfish and put ourselves first. While we know there is a balance, we often get it wrong. Lord, we ask you to help us in that balance. Let us see how our words and actions impact others. I personally ask you to warm my heart and take this pain and hurt away.

Jesus, these times are crazy. We are interacting through a screen and not face to face. So much is lost when we can’t see each other or touch one other. We ask for grace, peace, and help as we continue to navigate this socially distanced world. We pray all these things in your name, Amen.