{Not} Responsible
By Lexi Cole Ellis
“Therefore, my brothers and sisters, make every
effort to confirm your calling and election.”
I was
stuck…driving on a one-lane road behind a huge commercial truck filled to the
brim with small rocks. I slowed down to what felt like a crawl. In an attempt to avoid the occasional spray
of rocks flying out, I left a significant amount of space between the truck and
myself. Even with the distance, I listened to the tink of small pebbles hitting
my windshield. I couldn’t help but laugh at the irony that stared me right in
the face. On the back of the truck, it
read…
Later
that week, I saw a similar sign as I entered the car wash. If their machinery happens to malfunction,
they’re not responsible for any damage that’s caused to your car either.
I wish I
could walk around with a “not responsible” sign for life. Warning! Not responsible for that “less-than-ideal” tone of voice or
attitude that was unnecessarily harsh with my kids. Sorry! Not responsible for
the hurt feelings that are a result of my selfishness with my husband. Stay
back! Not responsible for the broken hearts or wounded spirits because of my
actions with my friend.
But the
truth remains, we are responsible for our actions. We are
accountable to the areas or spheres where we’ve been called into leadership. I am responsible for how I treat others because, as
a Believer, I am called to let my life be a light. Scripture is pretty clear
that it’s not just our words that matter…God also sees the condition of our
heart; our attitude matters.
Believers
don’t get a “not responsible” sign that allows us to flee from responsibility.
We are called to not only invest in relationships - - but to also monitor and
own up when we mess up. Life is complicated and not without conflict. But rather
than claim it’s not our fault and leave, we are called to enter into the mess.
Thankfully,
none of the pebbles actually cracked my windshield that day. But I am also thankful
for the reminder that real life - - a life that pursues holiness and community
- - is one that rejects the easier idea of putting up a “not responsible” sign.
GOING
DEEPER:
1.
Take some time to examine the different areas of your life. Are
there relationships or situations where you’re attempting to post the “not
responsible” sign? What needs to change?
FURTHER
READING:
Lexi
and her husband, Andrew, have an adorable dog named Calvin and are expecting
their first child in June 2018. She teaches sixth grade Reading & Writing,
serves with Children’s Ministries, and is the Fresh Start Coordinator.
