Nice Hat

He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the LORD require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God? - Micah 6:8

When I take a walk I am sure I resemble a courier from the first century with an important message that must be delivered at once. In other words, I’m focused, on the move, and rarely make stops. I’m not unfriendly, just want to make sure my body is getting exercise. Today, was no different.

I was headed down my usual path and immediately noticed that I was gaining ground on an individual ahead. Reviewing my methodical plan of how I gracefully move around people without startling them or having to slow down, I began to make my move around the gentleman on his right side and looked to my left just as I was passing him to provide a quick morning greeting.

As I looked up, I noticed his hat because I recognized it from a previous day of passing this same person. His hat was a neutral color with simple words written in white that stated a political preference.

I stated, “Good morning. I believe we passed another day, I recognize your hat.”

He quickly replied, “I always wear a hat.”

“I like it.”

“You are a supporter?”, he asked.

“Yes I am.”

I then continued on my walk, resuming my usual pace. However, the conversation kept rolling over and over in my mind with a myriad of questions.

What if I hadn’t been a supporter of his political preference? Would I have still said good morning (I hope so)? What would have happened if someone who vehemently disagreed, passed him? Would that person greet him or just keep going? Why does it matter, shouldn’t we greet people no matter what?

The apostle Paul had an answer for my thoughts. I assume the people in ancient Rome wrestled with the same issues when there were differing opinions about those in governmental positions. In Romans 13: 1, Paul stated, “Let every person be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God.” He was saying that everyone is to submit to the governing authorities. Why? Because the authorities that exist are instituted by God. His response is as important today as it was for our ancient forebearers. The truth is that all those who hold earthly authority ultimately received it from God. Therefore, we are to honor people in such positions, even if we disagree with them.

It’s all about the One with true authority. After all, God is sovereign over all rulers, and it is He who “removes kings and set up kings” according to His will (Daniel 2:21). The Enduring Word commentary states it this way: We subject ourselves to governing authorities because they are appointed by God and serve a purpose in His plan. God uses all people, believers and unbelievers, to accomplish and fulfill His plans. No one is big enough, smart enough, or strong enough to thwart God's plans (Job 42:2).

Ultimately, we are to live as peacefully as possible, knowing God is our true King, and to prioritize doing good in our communities as we model kind and compassionate behavior.

Jesus Himself didn’t compromise on Truth, but He did avoid unnecessary offense that would be a stumbling block for others to hear and know the gospel. He spoke to an adultress at the well when He asked her for something to drink, He shared meals with tax collectors, He touched lepers, and some of His best friends were stinky fisherman. In Matthew 25:40, Jesus said this: “Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.” This statement reveals the profound identification of Jesus with His followers. 

Acts of kindness and service to others are seen as acts done directly to Christ Himself. Jesus didn’t compartmentalize who He would support. Jesus was always relational, with everyone. Rather than focus on what divides, Jesus’ upside-down kingdom reorients our relationships with others and helps up love even when there are differences.

So as I continued on my walk and pondered these thoughts, I realized the big win and it has nothing to do with political party preferences, sports teams, or the particular organizations we support. God intentionally created us with different aptitudes, opinions, desires, and interests. At the end of the day, it’s not about politics, sports, or personal opinions—it’s about following the example of Jesus to show kindness to others, in spite of the differences.