Stumbling.

Scripture passage that caught my attention today: Luke 17:1 Jesus said to his disciples, “Occasions for stumbling are bound to come, but woe to anyone by whom they come!

Observation: Jesus was realistic, but he also consistently expressed concern for those who are vulnerable and called for those in positions of influence and/or power to be servant-minded.

Application: On the one hand, we’re all human. There are parts of us that we don’t understand, don’t like, and may wish were different. On that level we’re all alike. To put in in Paul’s terms, “all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.”

On the other hand, for whatever reason, we occupy and exercise different positions of responsibility in society professionally and personally. For example, although it’s true that a teacher is no less a sinner than a student, teachers are not to intentionally lead students into unhealthy situations. Those with more influence/power in a relationship are to shepherd it wisely. If not, there is a price to be paid.

It seems that people most often fall into trouble when they fail to embrace their respective position(s) as part and parcel of who they are. We may be a parent and/or married or a representative of the people or a teacher or a spiritual leader or whatever. Some people say that we are more than what we do or what we are known for. That’s true. But what we do or what we are known for is part of who we are as well and neither can nor should be denied. In fact, the very remembrance and embracing of such realities can not only help keep us from stumbling, but more importantly, may well help prevent us from tripping up anyone else as well.

Prayer: Lord, yes, occasions for stumbling are sure to come. Help us avoid tripping up anyone else through our own clumsiness. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

(Readings today included: Esther 1-2, Psalm 150, and Luke 17)