I Was Wrong: A Costco Confession

Oct 31

**Read Time / 2 Minutes**

**Theme / Wise Living**

“I Hate You” I shouted at my sister as Mom loaded out our royal blue Odyssey in the Costco parking lot. While, in that moment, my twelve-year-old self felt justified, looking back that was a harsh over reaction.

That day reminds me how quickly anger can flare and an untamed tongue can cause relational death.

Although our family rhythms—Sunday services, bedtime prayers, Dad’s nudges to be soaking in the words of the gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke and John)—have anchored my faith, they’ve also peeled back layers of my heart to the radical demands of Christ’s teaching.

For example, in Matthew 5:42-44, Jesus teaches:

”You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I say to you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you.”

Jesus said some wild stuff. I don’t know about you, but I have a hard enough time praying a blessing for my fellow driver on the road. Yet, I know there is opportunity here for Jesus to make me more like Him.

Lord, since I was a young boy, I’ve struggled with anger and hatred. Lead me to the cross. Purify us, as Christ followers, to reflect Jesus. Would we learn (starting with me) to hold our tongue and use it solely to glorify You. Use us to speak words of redemption over people those who persecute us.

Today’s Faith Challenge: spend 60 seconds asking God to reveal someone that’s hurt you. Then, ask God to bless them.

Ryan De Amicis

Wealth Advisor

408.758.6413

ryan@christianwm.com