We all know the stress level that people are under these days. We see it in drivers, how people respond to one another in stores, and almost anywhere we look. The stress of life seems to be enough to put people over the edge. It is like self control has been thrown out the window and any restraint that used to work is gone. I often hear it said that people lack a filter as they respond to others, but now put anger into the mix and things can get dangerous.
The other day my husband Jack was very nearly hit by a car that came into a parking lot at considerable speed. The man driving the car was defiant in his attitude, even when another person spoke out who had witnessed it all. His response was that he was just sorry that he had not killed Jack because then the world would be free (I will leave out the rest).
Truthfully, the situation got even more heated because then Jack brought Jesus into the conversation. The Name above all names that can unify or divide, where an individual will declare what side they are on, either with a demonstration of peace, aggression, or ambivalence.
How we react will set the stage for what will follow and how those involved will play their parts. One was bringing a voice of accountability while the other spoke of his right to behave as he chose, inferring by his actions little credibility to possible circumstances. Jack bringing Jesus into the situation determined his next step, and as the driver was extremely agitated by the name of Jesus it was clear he had a choice as well. Once Jesus has been declared, His name now sets the standard for the believer, and with that an opportunity to plant a seed for a lost soul. In the end, it was Jack and the man who witnessed it all from his truck that came together and prayed for a hurting individual that was in desperate need of Jesus.
The mention of Jesus was enough to cause anger to spill over into fury, but the power of agreement was used to ask the Prince of Peace to come and bring love to a man who God alone knows the workings of his heart.
The Prince of Peace as prophesied by the prophet Isaiah.
Isaiah 9:6 For unto us a Child is born, unto us a Son is given; and the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
I have been praising the Lord that Jack was not hit by that car, standing in faith that God will work it for good in regard to the driver, but also declaring my dependance on His grace for me had the situation turned out differently. Would I have had a heart of forgiveness for a man who seemed to value the life of another with such disregard? My hope is and must always be in the sustaining power of Jesus, because without Him I too would be lost.