Our previous blog article focused on loving others that we deem to be Karen’s, which is the name by which our society has labelled people that are mean-spirited and abusive to other people. But as you read that blog, did you see a little bit of yourself in that depiction? Have you ever demonstrated behavior that is “Karen-like”? Are you a Karen?
This guy is. Despite growing up in the church and a lifetime of following Christ. Despite graduating from a Christian university. Despite positions of influence and leadership in churches. Despite authoring books and articles that exhort people to abandon their sinful behavior and follow Jesus for eternity. Yes, I am, at times, a Karen.
Just happened last week in fact. I had an early shift at work and decided to stop by a fast-food place to grab breakfast. The time was 5:30 and I assumed it would be a quick stop because everyone else was at home asleep. Nope. The drive-thru lane was full of other early-risers. My frustration started to grow. But then as driver after driver in the other lane was helped prior to me, my frustration turned into anger (righteous anger, of course, I thought). When I finally placed my order and drove to the payment window, I might or might not have voiced my frustrations. Clearly, not my most stellar moment. Was I a jerk? Was I a Karen? Yes.
So, what’s the point? To throw myself under the bus? Perhaps. But the larger point is that we need to step back from ourselves and recognize that our behavior has either a positive or negative affect on others. Wouldn’t you rather have a positive impact on others? Did my interaction with the worker on the other side of the window make a positive contribution to her day? No.
In the previous blog, James reminded us that the love mentioned in 1 Corinthians 13 needs to be our model for everyone, not just our spouses, family members, or friends. The Bible reminds us of this importance in Matthew 22:36-40: “Jesus replied: ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.” (NIV).
Go and do likewise. Show love to that grocery store clerk today. Show love to that difficult co-worker. Show love to that person driving 5 miles under the speed limit in the left lane.
(Feel like this is impossible? Our friends at the Tony D connection are uniquely positioned to provide tools with how to start the day with positivity. Visit their website: www.thetonydconnection.com)
