Back Off

 by Macy Johnson

“Stop judging by mere appearances,

and make a right judgment.”

(John 7:24 NIV)

 

It was a cold, rainy, dreary Sunday morning. I had a house full of family guests for the weekend. On my way to church by myself, I drove up to a gray SUV driving under the speed limit. I had allocated a certain number of minutes, thirty to be exact, to safely arrive at church. 

 

“Oh no, Lord. I hope I am not late this morning! How could I get behind someone so slow and at the beginning of the drive? Maybe they will turn off soon,” I prayed.

 

As I pressed closer to the car ahead, wishing it would go faster, guilt crept into my mind. Would I like someone to press on me like this? Shouldn’t I back off? What would Jesus do?

 

My heart sank when the car turned its blinker on to turn into my church’s parking lot. I felt a dagger in my chest. I was caught. I was the guilty party and the biggest fool. I turned into the next entrance and hoped they didn’t recognize my car. I sat in my seat and waited a few more minutes. I never saw who they were.

 

Shame poured over me. Who do I think I am to criticize someone else’s driving habits, when my own are despicable? The Holy Spirit convicted me of a greater sin of thinking I was more important than the driver ahead of me.

 

Our Youth Director preached that morning on the prayers of the Pharisee and the Tax Collector in the synagogue. I felt my heavenly Father’s grace and mercy pour over me. I deserved punishment for my thoughts, and He forgave me.

 

I will back off and not criticize others, especially when I am driving my car. I hope you will, too!