Harmony with Others

Please take a moment and read the scripture from this weekend: Mark 9:49-50

Do you like using social media? I started using Instagram because I loved seeing the pictures my friends would post about their families. Nowadays, I find that I also follow a variety of influencers who offer motivation. It’s everything from poets to therapists to random people who want to offer a bit of positivity or humor. I read quotes such as “Age is irrelevant”, or, “You CAN have abs after 50”. Positive memes pop up like, “In case no one has told you, you are doing your best and are going to be ok”. This was one of my favorites from last week, “80% of arguments start because someone hasn’t eaten yet”. This was the validation I needed. Hangry is a real thing! If you know me, you know that I eat lunch at noon every day, not because of habit, but because I don’t want to get hangry. My kids know that if we are out and about, the best way to keep the peace is to stop for snacks regularly… not for them… for me. Many problems have been solved over a scoop of ice cream or a tray of salty french fries.

In worship this weekend, Pastor Greg taught on the theme “Seeking Peace“. The scripture was the story of the disciples arguing over who is greater. When Jesus asked them what they were arguing about, no one offered an answer. But Jesus knew… and then he proceeded to give them a litany of things they could do better. He ended with, “Salt is good; but if salt has lost its saltiness, how can you season it? Have salt in yourselves, and be at peace with one another.”

Was Jesus saying that the disciples needed a tray of french fries?

Of course, I’m joking…

But, the disciples did need a moment to pause – to regroup – to check their hearts. Jesus was trying to convey to the disciples, and us, that peace can only be found within us, in our hearts. All those motivational quotes that I see daily are meant as a quick reminder that I can improve myself. Not only am I capable, but I am called to be the light to others and to have peace with others. It has to start with me.

It makes me think of the beautiful Christmas song by Matt Maher titled, “Glory.” The chorus goes like this:
“We’re singing, glory, glory.
Let there be peace.
Let there be peace.
We’re singing, glory, glory.
Let there be peace.
Let it start in me.”

Heavenly Father,
When we think things need to change, or that someone needs to change, help us check ourselves first. Let all that we search for, be found in us, in our hearts. Remind us that you give us all that we need. All we have to do is ask. Grant us peace, Lord. In the precious, mighty and saving name of Jesus. Amen.

Written by Julie Anderson

Julie Anderson is a member of Sheridan’s Devotion Writing Team. She works as Sheridan’s Children’s Music Coordinator where she is passionate about teaching children to use their musical gifts to praise God.Julie is married to Scott and counts her greatest honor as being mom to Adrienne, Eliot and Elise.