Daily devotional, December 7, 2023 Cheek to cheek
“Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.”
Ephesians 4:31-32
The recent pandemic has changed our way of greeting people in our social circles. If before, we could greet them cheek to cheek, health and safety precautions have taught us to just bump fists or elbows with those we meet outside of our households.
Greeting another person with a Holy Kiss is a tradition observed even in Jesus’ time. It is a sign of friendship and acceptance towards a fellow believer. It is what the Apostle Paul tells the church after he addresses them in His letters such as those he has given to the Corinthians, Romans and the Thessalonians:
"The churches in the province of Asia send you greetings. Aquila and Priscilla greet you warmly in the Lord, and so does the church that meets at their house. All the brothers and sisters here send you greetings. Greet one another with a holy kiss."
1 Corinthians 16:19
Fast forward to today’s time, but prior to the social distancing restrictions, a greeting of kiss on the cheek showed warmth and welcome. And now that pandemic restrictions have been lifted, some are slowly returning to this custom. Although others choose to retain a less intimate way of greeting just to be cautious.
Either way, what we should be worried about is the kind of kiss that has hurt and betrayed our Lord Jesus Christ — Judas’ kiss that is. Unfortunately, such an insincere gesture pervades social circles even up to now:
"Now the betrayer had arranged a signal with them: “The one I kiss is the man; arrest him.” Going at once to Jesus, Judas said, “Greetings, Rabbi!” and kissed him."
(Matthew 26:48-29)
In our lives, we have encountered, and will continue to encounter Judases who will betray us in both big ways and small ways. Whatever they do though, let us take comfort in the protection of our Lord and Savior who promises to deliver us through such insincerity and vileness:
"I will bless those who bless you, and him who dishonors you I will curse, and in you all the families of the earth shall be blessed.”
Genesis 12:3
And since vengeance belongs to the Lord (Deuteronomy 32:35), we should follow Jesus Christ’s example of meekness, and His teachings on humility:
“You have heard that it was said, ‘Eye for eye, and tooth for tooth.’But I tell you, do not resist an evil person. If anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to them the other cheek also."
Matthew 5:38-39
Biblical scholars say the above verse pertains to the hurt of insult more than physical harm. When we just ignore others who malign us and just leave up their actions to the Lord, it will show our faith in God’s promise to defend us:
"Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, “Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.” To the contrary, 'if your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink; for by so doing you will heap burning coals on his head.' Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good." Romans 12:19-21
Yes, it is difficult to just let other people’s offenses slide, especially if it has hurt our reputation, or harmed us or our loved ones in any way. But by following the Lord’s commands, we get to live out His teaching to forgive others who have wronged us. He gives us the opportunity to be forgiven for our own mistakes:
“Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven." Luke 6:37
We must remain focused in our work for the Lord and in carrying out His command to love others. Let us be sure that as we greet people this Christmas, our gestures will be filled with sincerity, kindness and Christ-like love.
Thank you for reading through our devotional today. I invite you to ponder on Matthew 5:38-48 and Matthew 26:14-25, 47-54 to dig deeper on today’s topic.
Reflection Question: Have you discovered a betrayal from a close friend or a loved one? How are you reacting to it?
Conversation with the Lord: Heavenly Father, thank you for standing by me amid the betrayals I have experienced in my life. Thank you for assuring me that you have my back and that no one can snatch me out of your hands. Give me the confidence my Lord to totally surrender to you all the hurts and pains I have experienced, so that I could remain focused on the work that you have for me. Amen.