The Other Cheek
March 18, 2014
Ever been in a situation when someone does something you feel is inconsiderate? Of course, you have. Did you ask the person to stop doing whatever? What if it’s your employer? A relative? A friend? Would you say “please stop” even if it cost you something?
An airline asked two females to disembark because they were kissing (mouth to mouth) on board. They protested and somehow the episode was leaked to the paper. The same airline okayed a cross-dresser for staying on board. A picture of the cross-dresser accompanied the article as he was being searched. Hmm! (Sun-Sentinel Newspaper, What gets you booted off plane?,” 10/1/11)
Well, what about adults using foul language in front of you? Or, parents who allow their two-year-old to scream while you’re eating in an upscale restaurant? If you attended a dinner party and heard a racist joke, would you respond? How? Did you?
The country song with the lyrics (for card playing), knowing “when to hold ‘em and when to fold ‘em” is what life is all about. Is it?
In Matthew 5:39, Jesus says, “Do not resist him who is evil; but whoever slaps you on your right cheek, turn to him the other also.”
A slap is very personal. Someone wants to hurt you. The two-year-old crying next to you in the restaurant doesn’t. But, what about your rights in having a nice meal? You’re paying for it, too, just like the parents next to you.
Is foul language a different issue? How about a racist comment? Does it matter who either comes from? Stranger? Family member?
Are there any situations where turning the other cheek doesn’t apply? And, how many cheeks are there?
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