Become a Reconciler

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Do I behave any differently than I otherwise would because I am a Christian?  

While it may be an appropriate question, it’s also a discomforting one because it brings me face-to-face with the reality that I may not be as different as I would like. 

This is not merely a theological question to ponder. It is rooted in real life in these days of deep divide, increasing polarization, and a highly partisan presidential campaign. So let me rephrase my question, this time for all of us.  

Do we behave any differently in the midst of the deep division all around us than we otherwise would because of our relationships with our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ? 

To be clear, I am not telling you what to believe or how to vote. Rather I am making a passionate plea to let our identity as Jesus’ followers cause us to act differently in the midst of the divisiveness that has engulfed our nation. Pay close attention to how the Apostle Paul puts it so simply, yet so eloquently: 

In other words, God was reconciling the world to himself through Christ, by not counting people’s sins against them. He has trusted us with this message of reconciliation.  

­­––2 Corinthians 5:19 CEB 

We know God is at work in Christ Jesus reconciling the world to Himself. We have experienced that reconciliation first hand through our relationship with Jesus as Lord and Savior. And now we have the opportunity to help others experience how a relationship with Jesus truly leads us to become involved in the Kingdom work of reconciliation.  

Bottom line: Jesus is calling us to work diligently to avoid becoming yet another divider. 

Instead, become a reconciler.

Bishop Gary Mueller, resident episcopal leader of the Arkansas Area of The United Methodist Church, serves as vice president of the General Commission on UM Men. This post is republished with permission from Reflections, a bi-monthly e-letter by agency officers and staff of the General Commission on UM Men .