If you have been following reports about the Town Hall Meetings going on around the country during this congressional recess, you can’t help but notice the angry responses being expressed by people in those meetings.  While I agree with most of the opposition to the current health care plan the President is trying to sell to the American people, and while I take issue with certain politicians’ efforts to characterize vocal opposition to this plan as un-American and not truly representative of the people, I am equally concerned and disgusted by the name calling and disrespect on both sides.

I hope you will participate in a local Town Hall meeting if you can.  When you do, may I suggest that you read James 1:19-20 out loud before you go.  Why?  Because “man’s anger does NOT bring about the righteous life that God desires.”  Name calling and verbal attacks denigrate the dignity of those whom God has created in His image.  Followers of Christ, more than anyone else, must model the righteous life by treating others with dignity and with respect, regardless of how undignified they act towards us.  That is the kind of life God desires!

FANNING THE FLAME
Our grandchildren are observing how we deal with things like disagreements at Town Hall meetings.  Fanning the flames of anger and hate will hinder, not only others’ willingness to hear our voice, but the cultivation of a righteous life in our children and grandchildren.  Fan the flames of respect and dignity for our fellowmen, rather than bitter outrage and name-calling.  Let our grandchildren see us speaking the truth in love and acting with kindness, even in opposition to a bad idea, so that our Father in heaven may be glorified through that righteous life that God desires.

GRANDPAUSE: “A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.”  Prov. 15:1