How Does the Golden Rule Work?

A few weeks ago, just before the weather turned cold, my wife and I took the Kayaks out one last time. It had been a busy few weeks and we desperately needed some sabbath rest. We packed up the kayaks and sped to Lake Jocassee. We could not have asked for a better day. The warmth of the sun. The refreshing feel of cold water on hot skin. We had nothing but time and the lake practically to ourselves.  

We made our way across the water to a small island. A secluded and peaceful white sandy beach came into view. We paddled as fast as we could to stake our claim. Ugh what a glorious time. We spread out on the warm sand, swam in the cool water, ate like royalty (Doritos can seem like royalty at times) and napped lazily in our hammocks. 

Then it happened. A splash in the distance. Other kayaks were coming our way. Not one but eight kayaks. I did my best to discourage their desire to come ashore. I spread out our stuff to make it look like it was a Smith Family Reunion...but they would not be dismayed. They scrambled on the beach like a bunch of geese landing to rest on their migration. 

Our plans were shattered. I was grumpy. I know it's hard to picture your Pastor being irritable and I'm ashamed to admit it. The people were nice and even invited us to have a meal with them. Outwardly, I was polite. Inwardly, I was seething. I began to judge them. How could you be so rude? How could you not "read the room" (or the beach)? Who are you people?  

I quietly packed up our site and we paddled away in defeat. I was amazed at how I was thinking about these wonderful folks. I'm sure they could sense my hostility. And isn't it just like God to have a little passage in our series on James pop up for this weekend. Apparently, what we think of others and how we treat others is a big deal to God.