Quick to Speak - Slow to Listen?

Are you quick to speak and slow to listen?

I can be. Recently, I've been reflecting on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict in Israel.

I have my views—perhaps to be shared in another post—but amidst the deep polarization of the conflict, I've been exploring a need I feel to choose my side, for lack of better words.

So, I've been reading extensively, trying to gather evidence about who is right and what is right.

It's been exhausting because this conflict is complex.

Why are university presidents getting fired? Why are students upset? Why are nations up in arms? What's the spiritual undertone? Who has the right to this land? Is the fighting just? Is just fighting a real thing? Why are so many innocents in harm's way? What is God thinking? What is the Plan?

Many big questions. Selfishly, it is stimulating, which is where my personal problem lies.

More stimulating academic research for the African American largely removed from the day-to-day unbearable nature of war.

No real stake in the game—just my opinions in case I get into one of those "Good Will Hunting" verbal bar fights.

I had to remind myself that there are real people losing their lives each day—real hurt, real pain, real lives, experiences, and perspectives to reflect on.

James, Jesus' brother, in his letter to Christ's followers at the time, reminds us of a tried and true principle applicable here: "My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry."

Do you know anyone close to the conflict? Have you lent an open ear? Are you still able to converse with someone who opposes you?

If you are close to this or in this, I ask for patience toward those who may speak without understanding.

Does this mean we move forward with no opinion or taking no stance? Absolutely not.

It means that we respect the rules of engagement for any conflict. We can share, agree, agree to disagree, but at the end of the day, like the Good Samaritan (Samaritans being despised by Jews at the time), who helped the traveling Jew who was beaten and stripped of his clothing, a neighbor is not simply one of similar ethnic origin but one to whom you show virtue, despite your view.