SUNDAY, April 17 Sunday of the Passion: Palm Sunday

Matthew 27:11-54. Jesus said, “You say so.”

Do you want to be right or do you want to get along? This is the yardstick I try to keep handy to help me with my relationships. If I find myself stuck in the first part of the question, I also find myself stuck in intolerance and the accompanying sense of “dis-ease.” If I somehow, gracefully, find myself inching toward the second part of the question, I seem to find tolerance and acceptance in abundance.

Most of my difficulties come when I am unable to persuade someone to see things my way. I may not admit it at the time and, in fact, may not even believe it until later, but the truth is I have an almost insatiable need to be right or, at least to appear to be right.

A host of spiritual giants attest to the fact that in not knowing, we come to know. Every once and a while, I even stumble into that reality, usually more by accident than on purpose. When I do, I am again amazed at the benevolence of creation.

Finally, there are these four words that work in conjunction with this spiritual principle: Maybe you are right.

PRAY for The Episcopal Church in Jerusalem and the Middle East

Ps 31:9-16; Isaiah 50:4-9a; Philippians 2:5-11; Matthew 26:14—27:66 or Matthew 27:11-54

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ouch!

Apr 17, 2011 at 12:27 am

Written by Paulletta Garoutte-Aldridge,

The way this concept was presented to me was "Do you want to be right or do you want peace?" The situation I found myself in was a "war" of words and personalities--and it was obvious that we would never get along or convince each other of anything.... I finally conceded and bit my tongue even though I really didn't want to and I said, "I never thought of that in those terms, give me time to think about it." I believe we both went into shock! Now we tolerate each other which in your words for us is "getting along." (But God forgive me, there is still a part of me that knows I was right)

Ouch is right

Apr 17, 2011 at 7:40 am

Written by Bo Cox,

the last comment on yesterday's meditation was from a gentleman addressed his post to Dick Schmidt, the director of FM, basically saying that, while interesting, I totally missed the mark concerning the true purpose of daily meditations.
My response was a thinly diguised (if at all) rebuttal; instead of an acceptance that he has his right to like what he likes.
Then, in today's reading, my own words come back to me. I had to smile.
When will I learn? Peace...

Ouch!

Apr 17, 2011 at 8:07 am

Written by Lisa Henslee,

You hit the nail on the head with this one for sure! I think this is something that becomes easier with age. Though I do find myself reverting back to that bad habit of "having to be right" more often that I would like. Do you think its genetic?

I feel that I have really grown in this area in the past couple of years even. I used to argue my point, but now I can just say whatever and realize it isn't worth arguing over. Don't sweat the small stuff.
Thanks for reminding me to keep working on it.

Thanks

Apr 17, 2011 at 8:36 am

Written by Eddie C.,

Seeing wisdom "from the rooms" in meditations this month has truly been a blessing this month and today is no exception. Thank you for enriching my Lenten journey.

right or peace

Apr 17, 2011 at 9:10 am

Written by ivan williams,

I believe our writer has such a unique insight into scripture and life. We all think and believe differently because of what we have learned and experienced in life. Each one of is unique and there has only been one person in the history of the world that has been truly right at all times.

We can all learn from each other, even from those we disagree with. My personal belief and hope is that when my life is over and I meet God, that he will start me on a new journey that will help me understand not only my life, but His love for each of us and how our lives makes sense and have purpose no matter how long or short they are.

May we all try to be open to the many sermons and readings that will be painful and difficult as we walk with Christ during Holy Week, and read once again of what humanity did to the Son of God, because WE knew better than God and wanted things our way.

...

Apr 17, 2011 at 11:37 am

Written by E.Linda Cushner,

I am very humbled by this scripture and all the comments. I also must remember to be still and look at the entire picture before making a comment or criticizing. Every morning when I pray about difficult questions and challenges that arise in my life in any arena,, the Lord seems to bring everything into perspective. He teaches me acceptance, tolerance and lets me know that if I allow him to, he will make things right in His time. I am only a tool and I pray that he will use me but many times He has a remarkable way of using others to accomplish His will.

...

Apr 17, 2011 at 7:20 pm

Written by nora,

I am an "old lady" of 85yrs and I have coffee with other old ladiies twice a week and there is one dear friend who is more opinionated than I am so I am thankful for the good advice from you all.I must admit I had quite a chuckle, maybe you all are right!

Great feedback

Apr 17, 2011 at 10:33 pm

Written by Bo Cox,

Thank you for the stimulating comments. BTW, in our case, it probably is genetic, Lisa! Peace...

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