Dear Family and Friends,

We recently drove down what once was my favorite stretch of road, the nice down sloping curve on Kailua Road just before it enters Kailua town. 

It was a wonderful way to enter Kailua, until speed bumps meant to slow us all down suddenly appeared every fifty feet or so.

Is this a sign of the times as more and more drivers disregard the law?

Kailua Road is just one of many streets where red light cameras or speed bumps are popping up.

Have you noticed an increase in the creative ways people drive their cars – like speed, weave, run reds, tailgate, and wave with one finger. Things they would never do if their names were boldly displayed on their cars.

These acts are selfish in nature, and unfortunately, reflect what’s in their hearts.

I know you’re probably thinking okay here it comes – it’s time for our conviction of the day.

Not so. Our message for today is twofold.

First, let’s be mindful of the bad behaviors that surround us. For it says in ‭‭3 John‬ ‭1‬:‭11‬ ‭NLT‬‬.

“Dear friend, don’t let this bad example influence you. Follow only what is good. Remember that those who do good prove that they are God’s children, and those who do evil prove that they do not know God.” 

Why did John write this? Because it’s so easy to get lured into doing as other do.

We’re quick to rationalize, saying things like – well, everyone else is going over the speed limit…

Bumping along, what is your first reaction when seeing people drive like this? Mine is to judge, our default mode. 

We say to ourselves – what’s wrong with him? Is he crazy? Doesn’t he know he can hurt and even kill someone by driving like that?

We label him a criminal, hope he gets caught, then wish for justice.

How about we not allow these drivers to drag us into the angry darkness?

How about we not allow our thoughts and our hearts be as sinful as their actions?

How about we redeem evil for good by using these moments to practice loving others as Jesus commands?

Learning to love those we share the road with in the same way Jesus loves them. 

Loving them with humility. With a sympathetic and merciful heart. 

Lord God, You are love. Help us to be more like You.

And Lord, every time we go over those speed bumps, remind us to always make love our first reaction. 

In love always,