We are all on a journey and with every journey, there are unexpected turns, detours and, at times, bumps in the road that we must navigate. In a past election debate one of the candidates, in response to all the mud-slinging that was going on in the campaign stated, “They may take the low road, but we will take the high road”. That statement was often repeated in slightly different ways, but the meaning was always the same. You may get down and dirty, but we will take the road of higher integrity and honesty. The truth is, in political election campaigns, very few actually take the high road. It really is win at all costs, by whatever means.

However, there is some truth to that statement that should impact us as followers of Jesus on a journey that points others to Jesus. How do we respond to those that take “the low road”? How do we respond to those that cheat us, malign us, lie about us, and lump us together with all the others who choose to display attitudes and behaviours that are not Christ-like? Social media and mainstream news today have no shortage of pastors, leaders, churches and Christian ministries that say and do things that in many ways point people away from Jesus. How do we not get included in that group?

Jesus gives us the answer. It’s not an easy answer, practically speaking. The implications are not easy, they’re hard! But then again, taking the high road is never about ease and comfort. But I say to you, Do not resist the one who is evil. But if anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also. And if anyone would sue you and take your tunic, let him have your cloak as well. And if anyone forces you to go one mile, go with him two miles ... But I say to you, Love your enemies, and pray for those who persecute you (Matthew 5:39-41, 44).

For the early followers of Jesus living under the oppression of Roman occupation, these were difficult words. I think they are difficult for us today as well, but for other reasons. Taking the high road in pointing others to Jesus means that I may have to let go of my rights, my freedoms, my privileges, and my possessions so that others see Jesus. I’m not sure that’s the response I always want to hear. I like my rights, my freedoms, my privileges, and my possessions. Following Jesus and pointing others to Him may mean leaving what is familiar and comfortable in order to be the resource God uses to bring others to Himself.

Even in our flaws and failures, God can and wants to use us to point others to Himself. We must be willing to see something bigger than ourselves, our comfort, or our rights. In a world consumed with personal image, status, and social media presence we are called to something more, a higher calling, the high road.

Our world may be crumbling, our environment ever-changing, and not for the good. Yet, we are called to be light to the world, a light that shines in the darkness that guides others to Jesus. Sometimes that takes the form of what we say to others, or how we get along with one another in the same family. However, sometimes it starts with how we respond to those who disagree with us, reject us, defame our reputation, and treat us poorly. Remember the words of Jesus; Love your enemies, pray for those that persecute you. Taking the high road starts when I respond practically with the words of Jesus.

Taking the High Road, even when it’s difficult and lonely.

Rev. Bill Allan
AGC President