April 24
Choosing Grace
Over Rivalry
“You have heard that it was said, ‘An eye must be put out for an eye. A tooth must be knocked out for a tooth.’ But here is what I tell you. Do not fight against an evil person. Suppose someone slaps you on your right cheek. Turn your other cheek to them also.”
Matthew 5:38-39, NIrV
Jake and Ryan had been fierce rivals since their freshman year of high school. Both were star athletes on the track team, and their competition pushed them to achieve new heights. But it also bred tension.
At the regional finals, Jake stumbled during the 200-meter sprint, giving Ryan the edge to secure first place. The victory should have been sweet, but Ryan couldn’t resist throwing a subtle jab: “Better luck next time, Jake. Maybe practice more?”
Jake’s face burned with anger, but he bit his tongue. As the weeks went by, the tension escalated. Training sessions became hostile, with snide comments and cold stares exchanged at every opportunity. Jake was determined to prove himself at the state championship, not just by winning but by showing Ryan who was truly superior.
One evening, Jake sat in his room scrolling through social media. He came across a video of his church’s pastor speaking about forgiveness and letting go of grudges. “Turning the other cheek isn’t about weakness,” the pastor said. “It’s about strength. When you choose grace over retaliation, you reflect God’s love.”
Jake thought about the verse from Matthew 5:38-39. He had always seen forgiveness as letting someone off the hook. But now, he wondered if it was really about freeing himself from the weight of bitterness. That night, he prayed for guidance. “God, I don’t know how to let this go. Help me see Ryan the way You see him.”
At the state championship, Jake and Ryan were neck and neck as they approached the finish line. Just before crossing, Ryan stumbled, twisting his ankle. Instead of sprinting past him to claim the win, Jake slowed down, helping Ryan stay upright as they crossed the line together.
The crowd was stunned. Jake came in second place, but he felt a peace he hadn’t known before. Later, Ryan approached him, humbled. “Jake, I’ve been a jerk. You didn’t have to do that, but you did. Thank you.”
In that moment, Jake realized winning wasn’t about the medal. It was about reflecting the love and grace of God, even when it wasn’t easy.
Prayer:
Dear Lord,
Thank You for teaching us to choose grace over retaliation.
Like Jake, I sometimes hold on to bitterness and let competition or pride cloud my heart.
Help me to see others through Your eyes and to reflect Your love, even in challenging situations.
Teach me to turn the other cheek and to prioritize relationships over victories.
May my actions glorify You and bring peace to those around me.
In Jesus' name, Amen.
