Read: Matthew 5:38-42, Exodus 21:24, Lev. 24:20Isn't this an interesting question. Can my answer be, it depends? I think we all might say that if we are on the receiving end of being hurt, we're more comfortable with the law...but if we are the one that has done the harm, we'd much more like grace, wouldn't we? I think this is our natural, selfish tendency to feel this way. I have to remind myself that as much as I want to receive grace when I have done wrong, so, too, should others who have done wrong. Here's another question, though: what if they're a 'repeat offender'? I think by receiving grace we learn about forgiveness and try to change our behavior so that we won't mess up again. But what about someone who isn't sorry? Who keeps hurting others?
While the establishment of justice as an eye for an eye was anchored in Jewish law, those hearing Jesus must be caught up short by this new way to live. Jesus ushered in a kingdom. Do you feel more comfortable with the law or grace?
Monday, October 22, 2012
Eye for an eye
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I definitely prefer grace. It is easy to hold tightly to the desire for justice we have after being wronged. However, I really have to think about the wrongs I have done to others. I Definitely need grace, I also think showing grace is very freeing. Getting justice, or getting even with those who have wronged us just burns up too much time and effort, and it gives power to these people and their sin over us.
ReplyDeleteI'd have to agree that I like grace a whole lot more... But Jill as far as your question goes... I think when u see things happen over and over again.. A repeated negative behavior it's difficult to extend grace. Scott and I also think that if we are not involved directly it's easier to advise others to have grace, but when it directly impacts us it's often more difficult... Sometimes we need to extend grace while still giving consequences (like the law) and we may even need to place appropriate boundaries to not get hurt over and over.
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