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Mar 13, 2016
Faith· Life· The Little Things

Mocha, Mercy and Mondays: Bearing Wrongs Patiently

Do you know someone with “selective” hearing?  Do you know anyone who may have a “selective” memory? I know there have been moments in my life where I thought – or maybe I should say – accused – a person of having one or both.

After looking over the list of the Spiritual Works of Mercy, I realize that I too am guilty of having a ‘selective’ memory. I do NOT bear wrongs patiently.  I become the greatest attorney in the United States whenever someone treats me unfairly.  I may only present my opening and closing arguments to the jury in my own head – but I present those arguments and they are anything but brief.argumentpic1

I definitely don’t ever think – you know, “I should bear this wrong patiently”.

I can honestly say I forgot that this is a Work of Mercy.

I know from time to time I’ve thought – Jesus was innocent – but then it’s easy to put Him on the pedestal of being God.  I know He was both fully God and fully Man – but when I’m mad at someone for treating me unfairly, my selective memory kicks in – and I only think, “well, He’s God and I’m not”!

The fact that this act is so difficult for me makes me extremely aware that I need God’s grace. It also reminds me to be thankful that He is patient.  I need to put a conscious effort into changing my natural extinct to defend myself and “the truth” as my attorney voice demands in these situations.

Before writing this post, I knew I had to do some reading and reflecting.  I always do some reading before I write about a Work of Mercy, but this time it was more like studying and homework.  I knew when I read this one that I am HORRIBLE at this work of Mercy.  Who am I to give advice?  Luckily, I found someone to enlighten me.  I watched this video at Dynamic Catholic.  I then realized I need to remember three things the next time someone treats me unjustly.peaceyo

1. Don’t try to change this person.  Don’t think that God wants you to change this person.  This is something that I really believe, if I accept it, I will be more at peace.

2. Be Patient.  Find relief in the fact that the work of Mercy implies that if we wait longer, it will get better.  I am really glad this work of Mercy is not worded, “Bear wrongs indefinitely” or “Bear Wrongs for all eternity”.  There’s a silver lining.

3. Remember how important empathy is when the tables are turned. I constantly want people to understand where I’m coming from.  I need to remember – the person who is hurting me also has a story, a reason, a wound and a desire to be loved.  I am usually pretty good with empathy – except when I feel personally harmed or attacked.  I think if I can remember the first two “rules”, I will be able to “put myself in his or her shoes”.

How do you bear wrongs patiently?  Do you have any advice to those who are not very good at it?

 

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Comments

  1. Alice says

    March 14, 2016 at 10:18 am

    I know that attorney voice too good LOL! Once unjustice hits me, I analyze, argue, and attack and every single time regret it afterwards. I try to pause for a moment before I plot my takedown and ask myself if this will change anything. Usually the answer is no, so why even bother?

    • Amy says

      March 14, 2016 at 11:45 am

      That pause sounds like a great idea and such a wise action! Thank you Alice!

  2. Ally | The Speckled Goat says

    March 14, 2016 at 11:20 am

    I always try to remind myself that I can’t choose another’s behavior, but I can decide how I react. And honestly, the way we react often says more about us than it does about the behavior of the other person! If I react calmly, rationally, in a loving way that honors God, I’ve done right– no matter what wrong has been done against me.

    • Amy says

      March 14, 2016 at 11:44 am

      It’s always nice to have that peace that comes from knowing we acted justly. I know you’re right – but I still find it difficult! Thank you for your wisdom Ally!

  3. brianna george says

    March 15, 2016 at 11:11 am

    It’s easier to give grace when we are in need of grace. But true grace is still loving, giving mercy and patience even when we “feel” we aren’t in need of grace from another, which of course is a lie of pride. 😉

    When we have been hurt by someone we certainly need to give mercy and grace. The other side of this is dealing with the hurt. Allowing ourselves to feel the emotions we have and then allowing the Lord to heal us. 🙂

    Great post. 🙂

  4. Caroline @ In Due Time says

    March 15, 2016 at 6:43 pm

    I love all three points you made especially that it’s not our job to change someone else! If HE wants to, then it’s between God and the other person. Great reminder

    • Amy says

      March 15, 2016 at 7:00 pm

      Thanks Caroline!!

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