It was January, and we were using frequent flyer miles for the first time, escaping frigid Michigan to take a much needed break in sunny California. While checking in at the airport, we discovered that Bob's driver's license had expired. Thankfully, they let us on the plane, though he was "marked" and had to be checked by security at every checkpoint (which I probably enjoyed watching a bit too much!)
How can one be so negligent as to let their driver's license expire? We send those things in as soon as we get them, so how did this happen? (Translation: How could Bob be so negligent as to let this happen?) I have to admit that my reaction was less than stellar. Maybe it was my vacation passing away before my eyes, but still, that's no excuse. After all, I was the one who insisted we didn't need our passports, but that our driver's licenses would be adequate ID.
Fast forward to July. I wrote my first check in a long time, and I was told MY driver's license had expired. (Beware all you Michigan residents - I don't think they send out reminders anymore.) At this point, a plethora of Scripture verses were assaulting my brain:
"You, therefore, have no excuse, you who pass judgment on someone else, for at whatever point you judge the other, you are condemning yourself, because you who pass judgment do the same things." Romans 2:1
I did do exactly the same thing, given time.
"Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother's eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye?" Matthew 7:3
I seem to be quite good at that, unfortunately.
"Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, for man's anger does not bring about the righteous life that God desires." James 1:19
I'm memorizing the book of James right now, and I have to say that committing Scripture to memory gives you a whole new perspective. It's like God holding a mirror up and saying, "You are who I'm talking about here!" It's easy to miss those messages just reading through Scripture once. Especially when it's a message I don't particularly want to hear.
Today I start memorizing James chapter 3. I see a lot more verses on the tongue coming my way, and a lot more messages for me, I'm sure!
Dear Father, Thank you for the infinite patience You show to me. Forgive me for the times I don't show that patience to others. Thank you for loving me enough to correct me when I'm wrong. Help me to accept your correction and become more like You. I love You so much!
Lisa
