John 13:15 – I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you. (NIV)

Until recently, my husband and I have been playing cards with two other ladies. We tried to play once a week. Sometimes, it worked out, while at other times, life got in the way, especially as we grew elderly. We would rotate to each of our individual homes to play. The person who hosted would provide refreshments and dessert, which was always a treat.

The day came to get together at one of the ladies' homes, but my other friend and I received an email saying, "I am an old lady and the first snow scares me. I do not feel like going out. So I am not going to play cards today. Sorry!"

I telephoned the lady, and she told me that she didn't feel up to playing, and that the excitement of getting together had waned, especially because it had snowed earlier. I assured her that whenever she was ready to play again, she should let us know.

After our conversation, I thought about what she had shared. Although she had politely blamed the snow, I know that because of his dementia, my husband can't remember what trump is and also gets the jacks mixed up. In addition, I'm still learning to curb my unnecessary remarks about his poor playing, which he can't help. This combination was beginning to make playing the game unpleasant for the others. I was grateful for my friend's remarks, because they had triggered a reassessment of my behaviour, and now I had the opportunity to change. They brought to light what was hidden deep down inside, which had become a bad habit.

Proverbs 27:6 – Wounds from a friend can be trusted, but an enemy multiplies kisses. (NIV)

Romans 12:2 – Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is — his good, pleasing and perfect will. (NIV)

We, who are following Jesus, are His examples to others, and therefore, we should be careful in all that we say and do.

Prayer: Thank You, Lord, for showing us our arrogance, our faults, and our wrong attitudes. Thank You for friends who are politely able to show us our mistakes. Help us to search ourselves, to ask for forgiveness, and then to be renewed to do Your will. Amen.

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About the author:

Rosemary Hagedorn <rosyhagedorn@gmail.com>
Penetanguishene, Ontario, Canada
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