Maturation is not for Sissies

Growing up as a male, at least in my era of childhood, one often heard the word “sissy,” when emotion was expressed or weakness demonstrated. In today's vernacular the expression is to “man up!”

As a mature Christ follower, manning up now means showing compassion, owning our weaknesses, even denying ourselves. That persona is ill accepted in our present political era of macho-like, brazen arrogance, rank capitalism and yes, disregard for those who might feel differently.

This morning as I contemplate the environment within our nation, I can sense a departure from the nature of Christ. With that, a growing loss of true community, even a doubling down attitude regarding our past failures, rather than the confession and redemptive approach once advocated by the Body of Christ.

Over time instead of a natural maturation toward the likeness of Christ, it seems we have chosen exclusivity, self-interest, if not folding into a collective fear of personal loss. In our prosperity, we perhaps have gained the whole world, and now yes, we’ve lost our soul as a nation.

Those around us now for some 400 years, who labored alongside of us, but were intentionally denied access to blessings, now stand as our judges when scripture is fully heard.

“He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.” Micah 6:8 NIV