Tuesday, October 8, 2013
“She Yelled and Called Me Names”
This anecdote by Susan Basham from Everyday Grace brings to life many biblical teachings. It’s a touching story in its own right, but it also calls to mind all those biblical admonitions that we need to be reminded of from time to time — the ones about turning the other cheek, doing good to those who persecute us, giving food and drink to an enemy. As Proverbs 15:1 says, “A kind answer soothes angry feelings” (Contemporary English Version). You may be more familiar with it in the NRSV translation: “A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” I think Susan Basham’s simple little story from everyday life drives home the point well, and it’s likely to linger with you long after you read it. (My thanks to Susan Campbell of Hot Dogma for calling my attention to this link.)