Procrastination
Last week, I came across the classic Bill Waterson “Calvin and Hobbes” strip above. Calvin regrets what he did to Susie, and I love that Hobbes is encouraging him to reconcile with Susie. The last panel reveals Calvin’s dilemma; he lays his hope in the wrong place by thinking there will be another way to avoid doing what is necessary. Calvin focuses on himself, not his “neighbor’s” feelings.
This issue, as old as humanity itself, is like perennial weeds that keep returning year after year in the garden. Depending on the climate, the weeds may be kept somewhat in check by someone, but with the right mix of conditions, they grow like an out-of-control wildfire!
The climate of our culture over the past several years (maybe even decades) has allowed toxicity and abusive behaviors to grow out of control. If we are lucky, we acknowledge our bad behavior. Unfortunately, more and more people would justify calling Susie names and attacking her; after all, it must be her fault because she disagrees with my worldview. She brought this upon herself.
Maybe we should listen to Jesus:
So if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there before the altar and go. First be reconciled to your brother, and then come and offer your gift.
Matthew 5:23-24
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