Loathing is a deep seated feeling of dislike for someone or something. Maybe it’s a boss who acts superior or stresses out over the smallest of problems, or perhaps it’s that motorist who speeds around you then slows way down, and then speeds up again when you try to pass. Pretty soon you’re exchanging the universal symbol of discontent. Or it might be the know-it-all relative who feels a need to express his/her opinion on every subject that is discussed. We don’t like feeling the anger and frustration that rises up, but what can we do in the face of such irritating behaviors?
I’d like to suggest a way, with God’s help, of turning loathing into loving. I learned this simple truth years ago and have found its practice to be liberating and transforming. Try imaging the cross on the forehead of everyone who irks you, on every person who pushes your patience button to the limit. See the cross of Jesus right in the middle of their forehead as a reminder that Christ died for them and cares for them with an eternal love.
In fact, a few years ago I deepened this exercise by writing a little ditty I recite to myself when dealing with those difficult-to-love people: “When on your head the cross I see, I love you, and it frees me.” It is amazing how God’s compassion can flow through this simple visual aid. As the discipline of seeing others in this way becomes a holy habit, it aligns us with Jesus’ words recorded in John 13:34: “Love each other as I have loved you.” So let’s try it today. See the cross on every forehead and remind yourself: “When on your head the cross I see, I love you, and it frees me,” and experience God turning our loathing into loving.”
Leave a Reply