The Plumbline

Accept other believers who are weak in faith, and don’t argue with them about what they think is right or wrong. (Romans 14:1 NLT) We spend far too much time judging others for what they do or don't do, forgetting that we do some of the same stuff, or at least we did it at some point before we invited Jesus into our lives. The old adage, "It takes one to know one," isn't all that far from the mark. We notice the things in others that we either struggle with presently or have had a history with at some point. That doesn't mean we can judge them for their behavior, though. If we judge others, we can count that we will be judged by the same standard. So, do we really want to find ourselves in that same pickle? Arguing about what is right or wrong isn't going to bring us together - it will drive a wedge between us. In fact, that is why there are so many break-off denominations and churches these days! We have become so critical of the style of worship, the way pe...

But now you have arrived at your destination: By faith in Christ you are in direct relationship with God. Your baptism in Christ was not just washing you up for a fresh start. It also involved dressing you in an adult faith wardrobe—Christ’s life, the fulfillment of God’s original promise. In Christ’s family there can be no division into Jew and non-Jew, slave and free, male and female. Among us you are all equal. That is, we are all in a common relationship with Jesus Christ. (Galatians 3:26-28 MSG) No division - no WE/THEY. In Christ's family there can be no division. Let that one sink in a moment. Take even two minutes to think about the present circumstances in our nation and you will realize there is even more division and 'divisiveness' these days than ever. We have families and friends 'divided' over this pandemic - divided over if it is real or is it a hoax? We have neighbors within communities 'divided' over which 'lives matter'. We have a...