“For just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, so in Christ we, though many, form one body, and each member belongs to all the others.”
– Romans 12:4,5
 Procrustes was a famous villain in a Greek mythological fairy tale. He lived in the mountains, where there was a road called the Sacred Way, and he owned an inn where people could rest and sleep. The problem was that beds in his hotel never quite fit the travelers. Aware of this problem, the villainous innkeeper would physically alter his guests instead of providing furniture to fit them. If a bed was too long, he would stretch someone’s legs; if it was too short, he would cut off their limbs.
Unfortunately, in his attempts to “help” his patrons, he ended up torturing them. Gruesome, yes, but powerful in what it teaches us about relating to others. There’s always a temptation to try and make people fit our mold. However, this behavior is soul-killing and life-stealing torture to the one being made to “fit” where they don’t, and it’s the opposite of what Jesus taught us. The One who ate with tax collectors and sinners established a Kingdom that includes every age, race, and nation on earth! My friend, the Lord is beckoning you to be a source of unconditional love. It’s critical to know what you believe, but don’t let judgement get in the way of honoring the intrinsic value of every human being. Even if your views are as different as night and day, when you look at your neighbor, train yourself to see in them the treasure that Jesus does. While it’s tempting to jump on a bandwagon and ride only with those who share your position, it’s best let your character be shaped by embracing the ones with whom you have little in common. |
Prayer
Jesus, make me a source of unconditional love to every person I encounter.
Reflection
Do you try to make people fit your mold?
If you’re unable to attend your local church or need some additional weekly inspiration, be sure to tune into Hour of Power online at hourofpower.org/episode.
2 Responses
Thankyou for that email.
Please pray for me
Was in rehab 6 weeks
I am getting well
.need extra help
God bless you Betsy
Yes, it was gruesome what you said yes, but powerful. For example in the body of Christ, the hands is trying to make the feet fit into their mold; their image. Instead of appreciate that God created the feet (every part of the body) for his purpose and glory. The hands can not say to the feet, we don’t have no use for you. Remember, we all are fearful and wonderfully made. God knows what He is doing. It’s good and very good. Amen!