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I.M. Forbidden 10 Jan 2021

The Galatians letter says in chapter 5: 'Against those things there is no law.' And what are those things? They are called the fruits of the Holy Spirit: 'Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, trustfulness, gentleness and self-control.' (Gal 5, 22+23)

Story

Years ago I was asked to write the minutes of regular church meeting. Some persons in the group complained regularly that the bishop forbade them to do all kind of things. I got annoyed about that. I found myself raising up from my seat and said, 'If we talk this way I do not want to be a part of this group', and I headed to the exit of the room. I am not proud of my behaviour.
A miracle happened however. One of the people said, 'Please wait a moment and let us talk.' This man saved me.
I was offered to explain my feelings. I observed: 'The bishop does not forbid us to do any good work. We can care for people in our parish.' (conform Galatians, 'against such things there is no law.')
As result of this, in that meeting I have never again heard anyone complaining about the bishop. I am still not proud on my behaviour.

Not Forbidden

The church does not forbid me to organize meetings with other believers to pray and co-operate in reaching out to the needy ones around.
Especially the reaching out is hardly happening. I would love to learn from other believers. I would appreciate to be supported and encouraged by other believers to reach out in love to my neighbour.
This all is not forbidden. Personally I feel more discouraged than encouraged by my fellow believers. Mostly by lay persons.

Prayer

Jesus, be my guest. I'd like you to teach me how to relate to my fellow believers in meaningful ways. And I thank you for what you already did in my and our lives. For sure, it is not forbidden to love.

forbidden

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