Though Christianity is not about you, it contains you! Therefore, regard your relationships and responsibility.
Aloha,
allen
Thoughts
Perhaps, you have heard the stir in the media in the last few days concerning Tiger Woods’ auto accident. His otherwise clean record has been the topic of quite a few mud throwing contests. (And to be clear, this is not another one!) While his wife Elin was probably not the club-swinging spouse they’ve created her to be, some of the underlying stories might be truer than we once believed.
In Tiger’s public apology this morning, one of sport’s greatest poster children referenced his ‘transgressions’ and repeatedly requested privacy. Anyone who has ever made a mistake understands what a respectable and noble request Tiger is presenting. Unfortunately, what none of us can ignore, including Tiger, is that it is just not that easy. Our lives, whether on an international level or familial level, are lived in relationships with other people and those relationships present responsibility.
John Mark had to learn a similar lesson. When he chose to desert Paul and Barnabas on the missionary trail, he wasn’t making an independent decision. He was making a choice that would affect his relationships, mission, and community.
Paul is very clear about the unity that must exist among the body of Christ. In Ephesians 4 he writes extensively about striving for unity in the body of Christ. As individual members within the body, we must regard relationships and responsibility. Our choice to return to a former lifestyle, addiction, or a physical place for the sake of ourselves is detrimental to the body of Christ.
With all due respect, Tiger is not going to receive ultimate privacy just because he made some bad choices. His choices have impacted families, fans, and financial sponsorships. There’s no quick return to anonymity because it’s uncomfortable. It is relationships and responsibility. Before you choose to go home, make sure you regard them; Your life is not independent of them.
Application
How should the media and his fans handle Tiger Woods’ circumstances? (Ignore it, Explore it, Acknowledge it, etc.)
How do our individual actions impact our relationships and responsibilities in the Body of Christ?
Has there been a time when you chose to go home and the Kingdom suffered for it?
Prayer
Father,
I pray first for Tiger and his family. We all know the devastation that our actions can cause. Uplift his family and use this time to draw him closer to you. Second, help me to realize just how important I am to the body of Christ. My actions and decisions are crucial to the Kingdom. When temptation assails me, keep me steady on You. May I not rush to what is comfortable and easy. Rather, keep me connected and committed to You mission.
In Jesus’ name. Amen.
