What would Hiram have done


 

I was on my way back from the Cigar store and some things hit me. In the Hiram myth that we as Freemasons adhere to. If the three Ruffians would have backed down, would Hiram have shared with them what they sought?

In the Gospels after the crucifixion. Would Jesus have forgiven Judas (BTW I do not think Judas was the villain he is portrayed to be) just as Jesus welcomed "Doubting Thomas"?

Then as I was looking at the news today, I say that Jimmy Swaggart has passed away.

Over the years I have made a number of jokes about Jimmy. But the truth is he is a human being and like him or not his family deserves our thoughts right now.

I have always said that Jesus was a righteous guy, and my issue was never with him, but his followers. Jimmy was one of them.

Here is the thought today. How do you treat those that may have hurt you? The Christian VSL says to "pray for those that harm you". In Matthew 5:44 Jesus said, "But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you."

So, while we offer prayers for Rev Swaggart's family. What about those still here that may have hurt you? Judged you? Caused you harm?

Do you think they do this not out of a sense that they feel they are right. But maybe they have been hurt too? Just a thought.

Remember, no one is perfect. Not Jimmy, not me, and not you. We all have a burr on our stone to tend to.

May me extend some grace while we work.

I love you and may we govern ourselves accordingly


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