One of my favorite episodes of “Seinfeld” is The Opposite (S5:E22 – May 19, 1994). In the episode, George Costanza turns his life around by doing the opposite of what he would usually do.
George: Every decision I’ve ever made in my entire life has been wrong. My life is the complete opposite of everthing I want it to be. Every instinct I have in every aspect of life, be it something to wear, something to eat, it’s all been wrong.
Jerry: If every instinct you have is wrong, then the opposite would have to be right.
George: Yes, I will do the opposite. I used to sit here and do nothing and regret it for the rest of the day. So now I will do the opposite, and I will do something.
“Seinfeld”, The Opposite, S5:E22, May 19, 1994
When you find yourself feeling angry, bitter, hurt, or offended, try to follow George’s example. Instead of acting on your initial instincts, choose a different path. Forgive instead of fighting. Seek reconciliation rather than retaliation. The Bible offers many stories that highlight this principle, such as the Book of Philemon.
The Book of Philemon was written by the Apostle Paul while imprisoned in Rome around 61 A.D. It is a personal letter from Paul to Philemon, a wealthy Christian and a leader in the Colossian church.
At the heart of this epistle is Onesimus, a slave who had wronged his master Philemon and fled. However, Onesimus’s encounter with Paul leads to a profound transformation; he becomes a believer in Jesus Christ. Paul’s letter to Philemon is a delicate and heartfelt plea for forgiveness, urging Philemon to welcome Onesimus not merely as a returning slave but as a beloved brother in Christ.
This narrative is a beautiful illustration of Christian principles in action. It speaks volumes about the power of forgiveness, the importance of second chances, and the transformative impact of faith. Paul’s appeal to Philemon to reconcile with Onesimus is a personal request and a call to recognize the inherent dignity and equality of every individual before God.
The Book of Philemon illustrates how following Jesus should be evident in our daily lives. It urges believers to translate their faith into tangible actions, influencing how we engage with others and resolve conflicts. This book reminds us that faith is not just a concept but a powerful force that drives us to act with kindness and grace in our everyday interactions.
Philemon is a narrative of redemption, equality, and the unifying power of grace through faith in Jesus Christ. It urges us to transcend social constructs and recognize the potential for change and friendship in everyone we encounter. This embodies the command to love your neighbor as yourself (Mark 12:30-31). It serves as a reminder that every person holds dignity and value in the eyes of God. Through faith and love in Christ, we are all capable of transformation.
MindWolves 