Today’s scripture: Malachi 2:10-12 (ESV-text and audio) (KJV) (The Message)
As you read, consider: What might God be saying to me? Summarize your thoughts in a sentence or two.
My thoughts (Melody Merida):
I remember years ago watching Rodney King, who had been beaten by the LAPD during the OJ Simpson trial aftermath. Rodney had been released from the hospital, and as he stepped to the microphone at his press conference, he had the attention of the nation, which was waiting to hear what he might say about his horrific experience. A hush fell over the reporters there to cover his first words after recovering from the severe beating he had suffered.
Then, finally, he began to speak. “Can’t we all just get along?” he said. Uh, what? That’s it? That’s what you have to say to the entire United States of America? You have the whole nation waiting for your wisdom and all you can come up with is “Can’t we all just get along?”
For weeks, months, and even years after that press conference, King’s statement became the quintessential joke about disagreements. You’ve likely used this refrain — maybe in a mocking manner — when folks just aren’t getting along. My spouse and I say it to our four dogs when they begin to tussle. We know they don’t understand but we are amused by it. Rodney King will never be able to live down that moment.
To be honest, though, I’m not sure why we have dismissed Mr. King’s comment as fool’s talk. I think he hit the nail on the head when it comes to the source of most of our country’s ills. Why can’t we all just get along? Think about how different our world would be today if we would be able to put our differences aside and get along.
Given the context of the times in which Malachi prophesied, I’m not sure the intent of this Scripture was for the people of Judah what it was for me today, but the Spirit moves in unusual ways. When I read the Scripture I kept coming back to the beginning of verse 10: “Have we not all one Father? Did not one God create us?”
So, then, why can’t we all just get along? Are we not brothers and sisters? Are we not made in the same image of God? This is helpful to me particularly now as the political climate in our country seems to be divisive. Let’s put aside our petty differences and remember Whose we are — all of us. Don’t we all come from the same parent? And haven’t we all been created by one God? Let’s celebrate that rather than fight over our disagreements. Can’t we all just get along?!
Thought for the day: God, grow my love for those with whom I disagree — for truly we all come from you. Amen.
We encourage you to include a time of prayer with this reading. If you need a place to get started, consider the guidelines on the How to Pray page.