"Dear brothers and sisters, if another believer is overcome by some sin, you who are godly should gently and humbly help that person back onto the right path. And be careful not to fall into the same temptation yourself." Galatians 6:1 NLT
In an article posted by Runners World Magazine on Tuesday, it was reported that runner Chris Weiland, a senior in his second year with the UCLA track and field and cross-country team, was kicked off the team after a video surfaced of him allegedly using “racist, sexist, and homophobic language” while on a personal phone call in 2019; a call that was supposed to be private and was prior to his arrival to UCLA. But just like that, Chris Weiland was 'canceled' with no opportunity for restoration. And while his words were most definitely offensive, nasty, hurtful and inappropriate, they were most likely precipitated by a bad breakup that left the young man so hurt and angry that he lashed out without considering the consequences--words that I'm sure he regrets having said now. But if you and I are honest, wouldn't we admit to having said things we regret too?
And you know, while this world is quick to 'cancel' people (many times even if they have apologized and asked for forgiveness) they feel have done wrong or who have had lapses in judgement and said things they shouldn't have, the Bible tells us that we "who are godly should gently and humbly" help them get "back onto the right path" instead. You see, every person will sin, it's just a fact. But that doesn't mean they can't be forgiven. And if God forgives them, how can we withhold our forgiveness? After all, we are no better right?
So think twice before you ‘cancel’ someone for their sins my friend. Instead choose to offer them the same grace the Lord offers you when you are “overcome by some sin” and need help to get “back onto the right path.”
Heavenly Father, thank You for the amazing grace You give that saves wretches like me who continually sin and fall short of Your glory. Lord, in a world that is becoming known for the way it ‘cancels’ people who mess up, let us be known for forgiving people who mess up that they might be led to the foot of the Cross by our actions. It’s in Your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.
Happy Running!!!
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