Indifferent

Today's reading: Obadiah

On the day that you stood aside, on the day that strangers carried off his wealth, and foreigners entered his gates and cast lots for Jerusalem, you too were like one of them. Obadiah 11 NRSV

Guilty by disassociation. Sometimes we believe that just because we didn't get our hands dirty means that we are not guilty. But remaining silent, refusing to assist and standing around observing seem to be sins of similar proportions in God's eyes.

Has there ever been a time in your life that you decided not to help someone or to get in the middle of a situation that you later regretted?

Why did you hesitate or refuse to get involved? did you think it was none of your business? Were you afraid of being hurt or ashamed?

Was there another time when you did step in and were ridiculed by others even while you felt you had done the right thing? Or maybe you came away wishing you had never gotten involved.

According to Obadiah, God sees indifference as just as wicked as committing a sin.

Where is God calling you to get involved today?

God, you ask us to have compassion rather than indifference. Help us to know when to stay silent and when to get involved. And may we be obedient rather than fearful. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Copyright 2010 Amelia G. Sims