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Crosswords: Rational Reality Check
“But Jesus would not entrust Himself to them, for He knew all men. He did not need man’s testimony about man, for He knew what was in a man” (John 2:24-25).
If you live long enough, usually a mere 10 years or so, everyone in your life will disappoint you in some way. Before puberty turns the corner your parents halo will vanish when you figure out they are not always right. At some point you will find yourself saying, “I can’t believe my own brother, _______ , ________ would do that to me”. Your best friend will not live up to the title. Your favorite sports hero will fail to be so super. You will even disappoint yourself.
Frankly, we expect too much from people. We have an unbalanced view of others and ourselves when we set standards of perfection within relationships. We incorrectly think that those we love and those whom we believe love us are supposed to always say and do the right thing - or at least our view of the right thing. Our disillusionment can and does lead to failed marriages, broken friendships, and sibling rivalry that never seems to end. We ask of others what is impossible for them to achieve. Perfection.
The Bible is riddled, page after page, of dysfunctional relationships. It is a reminder that no human interaction is without distrust and difficulty. Not even Jesus was immune from the sting of betrayal by his family, friends and followers. He gave Himself completely to others while receiving far less in return. And yet, He continued to love, to forgive, to entrust anew all of those with which He came into contact. He had such a realistic view of man that it was impossible for Him to be caught off guard or disappointed. “He knew what was in a man,” and His expectations were based on that.
Until we gain a true perspective about others and ourselves, we will continue to break bonds of blood and love. We will see relationships as always lacking. We will become more cynical and disillusioned. Our self-imposed, unrealistic standards will never be met by anyone. It is not until the truth is illuminated in us, about us, that we can flourish within our imperfect relationships. You have to know someone before you can really love them.

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