Sunday, March 27, 2016

Showing Grace When Leaving an MC

When people leave an MC sometimes its for perfectly good reasons. I can think of a lot of guys who felt they needed to leave and did it respectfully.

Many have quit for perfectly good reasons and then come back later. We are so glad they are back. We welcome anyone back.

And some leave and talk smack. They are offended about something, legitimate or not, and can't get over it. Sometimes it's a spirit of anger that causes them to get mad over every little perceived offense and not be able to get over it, like other men can. Sometimes it's a difference of opinion about how an organization should be run, and they lose sight of the mission and flame out. Sometimes it's a spirit of pride and they can't take correction when they've stepped out of line. It might be any number of things, some harder to understand than others. In the heat of the moment it's hard to know, but they might repent and show up apologizing in a few months. Give them grace.

What matters is grace. Everybody screws up. Everyone goes off half cocked, kicking and screaming every once in a while, me included. Don't make a habit of it,  or that will be your reputation. Be ready to love those who left. Forgive them for their smack talk even if they haven't asked for it. Don't engage in the title for tat on social media. Smile, nod, and encourage them to be polite.

The 'church' does enough shouting and fingerpointing. There is enough disagreement and vitriol there. Let's be something different.

After all,  we believe in grace and mercy, and we need to live that and show it.

James Disciple Johnson
Natl President and Founder
Disciple Christian Motorcycle Club