Do you think of authority as a position in the hierarchy obtained by ordination or appointment? This is one approach, with the attendant offices and titles. This results in a visible and fixed structure of power, but is it the only one? Have you ever observed anyone who exercised authority because they were right, whether or not they held title or office? This is called moral authority, and anyone can do it. Consider my own life.

Do you forgive those who ask you for forgiveness? You know that is necessary. What about those who require forgiveness and do not ask for it? The dynamics of forgiveness and unforgiveness are the same whether it is requested or not, and your posture of forgiveness toward others is a factor in your own forgiveness. It can be awkward to offer forgiveness where it is not wanted, so how to proceed? In your own heart you can release the claims of justice that you hold against others. Examine yourself in this regard and I will accept you as having done your part in forgiving others.

Do you wonder about the cause of setbacks and tragedies in your life? Do you attempt to assign blame for apparently random events? Do you blame me? Joseph was the victim of the malevolent intent of his brothers. In this case there was nothing random; their intention was clear. Yet Joseph maintained a good attitude, and after a long course of events, was able to rescue his brothers and parents from the famine. His own assessment of the matter was that what they meant for evil, God meant for good. Can you see the advantage of this approach?

Have you ever watched a movie that featured a monster? Special effects can create fanciful beings that bear no resemblance to humanity. These are usually fearsome and horrible creatures for whom you feel no sympathy. Can the same term be applied to people? You can think of historical figures, typically tyrants, who are referred to as human monsters. The common connection is that they are lacking those things that give the connections and contours of humanity. Yet you affirm that all people are created in my image. Can you connect with those with whom you have nothing else in common?