Last night I was walking down a crowded sidewalk, and I felt like a salmon swimming upstream. There were more people walking toward me than with me. Each time someone approached, I got out of their way.

Many times these people were talking or looking at their phones — not paying attention to their paths — and would have run right into me if I hadn’t slid out of the way.

After a while, I got frustrated. I wondered why it was my job to get out of their way every time. I decided to let the next collision happen. So, when a man strode toward me chatting excitedly with friends, I kept walking and braced for impact. But it never happened. At the last second the guy hitched up and jigged out of my way, stumbling slightly.

I felt a little guilty. I could have easily gotten out of his way, but I didn’t. I was angry and ready for a confrontation. I was prepared to take out the anger I had accumulated on one guy.

“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God.” (Matthew‬ ‭5‬:‭9,‬ ‭CSB)‬

I recognize that feeling I had on the sidewalk. I’ve had it in all kinds of situations in my life. Each time, I have a choice. With every interaction, I can choose to be a peacemaker, or I can brace for impact. I can seek the interests of others, or I can make sure my rights aren’t trampled. I can put aside my pride and act with love, or I can serve myself.

Clearly, Jesus has an opinion on which I choose. Every time.

Dear God, thank you for the reminder of what it takes to be your child. Thank you for looking out for my needs so I don’t have to. Teach me to choose love, in all circumstances.