The Barn at the Homestead

The Barn at the Homestead

Saturday, September 15, 2012

Self control

What ever happened to self control?
The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.

I have been deeply disturbed the past few days about the increasing violence in our world, and most specifically, the violence that has erupted over a film/trailer posted on the Internet.  For the past few days I've pondered self control.  Often associated with dieting (and oh my, how I have battled weight in my life time), self control really applies to much of our daily living.


As an Episcopalian, my church has often been the subject of much misinterpretation and often under attack.  I'm not writing to debate my denomination; I think I'm here to stay.  However, I've never felt the need for violence when someone speaks unkindly, or makes fun of my denomination.  Hurt--yes, I've often felt hurt; violence doesn't serve us well. It was Gandhi who said, "An eye for an eye makes the whole world blind."  I'm not called to agree; I am called to love.


Many years ago a good friend of mine who is a Mennonite said to me, "Isn't it wonderful that God allows us to worship him in so many different ways."  I have never forgotten her words.  I remain grateful for the many people in my life who are dedicated Christians who do worship in different ways from me and many who also feel quite differently from me on various social  and religious subjects.  But my life would not be complete if there were no longer in my life.  Similarly, I am grateful that I have folks in my life who are of another faith--they had zest to my life.  Often inspired by St. Francis' words, "Preach the Gospel at all times; if necessary use words" I find it a joy to share my faith with them.


Join me in praying for our world.  Let us pray for self-control and let us work for peace.