Pancakes and syrup

I was 18 years old and sitting with a group of friends in the home of a Belgian pastor. There were stacks of Dutch-style pancakes (much like crepes but thicker) and tubs of apple and pear "stroop" (syrup) on the wide dining table. We dug in with all the enthusiasm of hungry teens but just as avidly drank in the pastor's wisdom.

Describing the many challenges of leading a church, the man shared one particularly painful season in his life when he had been falsely accused by certain people in his church.

What struck me most was this man's gracious response to his 'enemies'. Rather than hitting back or going on the defensive, he made the choice to wait patiently, silently, for vindication. He showed grace and love in the face of stinging criticism.

When someone hurts or angers us, offends or opposes us, our instincts scream for blood. An eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth - the desire for revenge and counter-offensive are as common today as they were 2000 years ago. Sadly, they are also common within the Christian community too.

For some reason, we seem to find it easier to criticise and accuse, than to encourage and bless, to hit back rather than to turn the other cheek.

It makes me wonder... how can people who talk about God's grace, be ungracious? Can I learn to meet criticism with kindness? How will I repay those who offend me - with revenge or with the currency of love?