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Glass houses

Isabelle Lee

My mother used a thought-provoking saying: “Those who live in glass houses shouldn’t throw stones.” A vision of broken glass came to my mind. Even as a child, I knew it wouldn’t be wise to do anything that might damage your home.

Now, as an adult, I realize there is a way we often thoughtlessly do damage in our homes.


Recently, I was reading Matthew 5, where Jesus was teaching His disciples about the Kingdom of Heaven. The Living New Testament expresses Matthew 5:22-24 this way: “If you are only angry, even in your own home, you are in danger of judgment! . . . Go and apologize and be reconciled.”

Our family members need to be treated with respect and patience. We must think of their spirits as being as fragile as glass and easily broken. Angry words we hurl at them like stones in a moment of aggravation or judgement can create wounds that linger for months and even a lifetime. All too often, these people, the ones God has given us to care for, are the ones we mistreat the most through our thoughtless, angry words. We must choose to stop. By allowing the Holy Spirit to teach us to control our anger and to practise the humble art of apology we can, over time, change the atmosphere in our homes from negative to positive. We can become a blessing in our homes instead of breaking them.

Isabelle Lee is a member of Northview Community Church in Abbotsford, B.C.

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Last modified June 29, 2001.

© 2001 Mennonite Brethren Herald.
Published by the Canadian Conference of MB Churches.
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