These days, the nicest thing you can do for someone is tolerate them. We are told over and over again as we grow up that we need to create a world that is centered around inclusivity and tolerance. While I fully support inclusivity, I have a huge issue with the word “tolerance”.
According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, when referring to relationships, the definition of tolerate is this: “To put up with.” Not to love, not to help, not to show empathy. Just to “put up with” them.
If we want to follow Jesus’ example, toleration isn’t the way to respond. Jesus included people from all walks of life: little children, outcasts, disgraced individuals, and regular folks. He invited them all to the table, encouraging them to abandon the ways of the world and commit themselves to being His disciples.
This wasn’t an easy invitation. It required sacrifice, diligence, and compassion, even for enemies. Yet this invitation is still extended to us today.
Within that invitation, Jesus doesn’t ask us to mutter under our breath as we allow certain members of society into the hallways of our churches. He doesn’t tell us to force a smile and pretend like people haven’t done wrong. Jesus commands us to love one another as He has loved us.
That means recognizing our faults, but looking past them to the heart of the real person inside, essentially unconditional love. A warm embrace after an epic mishap. A tender smile after an embarrassing moment. A gently worded piece of advice after we make the wrong choice.
After being with Jesus, we are changed forever. We won’t want to sin anymore. We won’t want to be the same people we used to be. But that doesn’t come from Jesus denying our past lives or giving us angry reprimands. Instead, Jesus helps us to address the root of our pain and guides us on the path to deeper healing.
So how can we extend similar love to others? While we don’t have the power of Jesus, we do have the Holy Spirit working inside us. If we listen and obey what the Holy Spirit tells us to do, whether that’s reaching out to an isolated person or volunteering to restore people’s lives, we will be able to see where our gifts are most needed.
Most of all, we can let go of mere tolerance and instead warmly embrace the people God places in our lives, no matter what stage of life they are in. We can go one step further than putting up with people. We can point them to the grace and truth of Jesus Christ, the only one who can truly save them.
Today, be intentional about how you interact with others. See where God might be calling you to more. And who knows? Your life may change forever too.
A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.
John 13:34-35
The Will to Wake Up 