Appearing Husks

From today's readings:

"When a sieve is shaken, the husks appear;
so do one’s faults when one speaks.
As the test of what the potter molds is in the furnace,
so in tribulation is the test of the just.
The fruit of a tree shows the care it has had;
so too does one’s speech disclose the bent of one’s mind.
Praise no one before he speaks,
for it is then that people are tested." - Sirach 27:4-7

Like so many, I was horrified and embarrassed by the weak, bullying behavior against Ukrainian President Zelenskyy during his visit to the White House this week. A man came on behalf of his people who are suffering from an unprovoked invasion. He was willing to negotiate for aid and support, even offering up the country's mineral rights. Instead, the men in the room mocked him, yelled at him, and demanded he kowtow to the invader. They taught they looked strong, but they just looked like schoolyard bullies, unable to regulate their emotions or conduct diplomacy. 

We knew they were weak bullies. But watching them act so horrifically really solidified it. The pretense was cast away. Their faults were broadcast on international news. Their speech disclosed the bent of their minds. And the rest of the world responded appropriately, stepping back. The country is losing its allies. Because who wants to side with childish egoists?

I don't understand how people have listened to the words of these type of men for years and still fail to hear what is being said. They receive praise although their words reveal the hate and anger and greed and evil of their hearts. It feels as though we are in a furnace, and we as a country are failing the test.

I cannot control the conduct of evil men, but I can guard my own conduct and not let their behavior affect my own. I cannot let my heart harden or my own speech disclose anger and hate. Remain calm in the storm, care for the seedlings of faith and hope, speak of truth and mercy. Sometimes you may feel like the only sane person in a room of cackling bullies, but God will not abandon you. He is the potter who molded you; you can withstand the furnace.