Living in the Spirit
August 12, 2021
Scripture Reading: Ephesians 5:15-20
Be careful then how you live, not as unwise people but as wise, making the most of the time, because the days are evil. So do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is. Do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery; but be filled with the Spirit, as you sing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs among yourselves, singing and making melody to the Lord in your hearts, giving thanks to God the Father at all times and for everything in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.
When listening to some of our political leaders being interviewed, I find myself drawn into discerning where they fit on Maslow’s Hierarchy of Need or The Stages of Faith described by James W. Fowler in his book by the same name*. Where are these people stuck on the steps of one or both of those maturation measurement tools? The speakers remind me of the two-year-old lying on the floor screaming and kicking because they did not get what they wanted or may not know what they want. They are at the stage of life when they might say, “You cannot make me wear a mask.” However, they perceive they have the right to outlaw everyone else from wearing a mask.
I have observed over time that one of the most damaging messages parents and others deliver to a child is that they are fundamentally better than everyone else. Such messaging is harmful because deep in every person’s heart is the knowledge that they are not better. Yet, if we are blessed with talents and skills, that does not enable us to mistreat others. Indeed, Jesus tells us in Luke 12:48b, From everyone to whom much has been given, much will be required; and from one to whom much has been entrusted, even more will be demanded.
How do we undo the harm that brings about damaged self-concepts? How do we help ourselves and others climb the steps to psychological and faith growth? Assisting people to develop empathy is a good starting point. I have recently seen some beautiful examples of children perceiving the needs of others and working to meet those needs. My mother’s nursing home had an arrangement with a nearby grade school. Classes of children came and did artwork with the patients. My mother, a former teacher, enjoyed participating with the children. The students developed a loving understanding of the unique needs of the elderly. Maybe some of us adults need to work on empathy also.
Prayer: Lord, open our hearts to the good in everyone, including ourselves, so that we may share your love in all we do and speak. Amen.
*https://www.institute4learning.com/2020/06/12/the-stages-of-faith-according-to-james-w-fowler/
All scriptures are quoted from the New Revised Standard Version Bible: Anglicized Edition, copyright 1989, 1995, Division of Christian Education of the National Council of Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights are reserved.