Blinkers.
I am certain every car has them.
What surprises me most is how little they are used because direction matters for us and for other motorists’ safety.
As a former delivery driver for United Parcel Service (UPS) and long before becoming a pastor, safe driving was drilled into our training.
Today, one of my pet peeves is the lack of use of this most basic driving tool, but I’ll save my grievances for another day.
To be sure, everyone should know which direction they are planning to go whether on the road or in life, and society should be able to discern our direction based upon our actions—our blinkers, if you will.
There is an old Christian song entitled, “They Will Know We Are Christians by Our Love.”
Love is directional.
It is kind, benevolent, and selfless.
The Apostle Paul, in a familiar passage often used at weddings, says, “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails.”
Hate is a direction, too.
Jesus, when speaking in his first public address, said as much.
“You have heard that it was said to the people long ago, ‘You shall not murder, and anyone who murders will be subject to judgment.’ But I tell you that anyone who is angry with a brother or sister will be subject to judgment.”
Hate is the wrong direction with or without a blinker!
Here is the point.
Our actions indicate our direction. If we choose to love, we show it. If we choose to hate, we show that, as well.
One thing I practice “religiously” is using my car’s blinkers. I even do it when it really doesn’t matter—when no one is around.
Why? Because consistency is the key to showing others where you are headed and what they can expect from you.
This week, when you are driving, remember your blinkers and the lesson of choosing to do good versus evil.
Try to be consistent, too.
Don’t blink at your own peril.
Kent Simmons is the pastor of Canyon Community Church in Kingman, AZ.
