2 Corinthians 5:16 - So from now on we regard no one from a worldly point of
view. Though we once regarded Christ in this way, we do so no longer. (NIV)
It's very hard not to be judgmental of other people, especially if they are
different. I can remember my eldest daughter coming home from Middle School in
tears. Earlier in the morning, she had seemed so bright and eager to go to
school, but something happened that broke her heart.
It took place in the Social Studies class. The teacher was asking where everyone
came from, to try to find out how many different places, towns, and states
everyone belonged to. When it came to Lynsey's turn, she reported that she had
been born in Scotland, a fact that some students in the class were unaware of.
During recess, something occurred in the hallway, and someone called out,
"Stupid, little immigrant!" It came from the lips of a girl whom Lynsey
considered as her friend, and she was totally shocked. When she came home, she
was in a great deal of mental and emotional pain. She thought she had been
accepted. Instead, she ended up being ridiculed.
Sometimes as Christians, we can come across as being prejudicial and judgmental
of those who are different, too. That's why Paul's words in today's Scripture
need to be taken seriously. Christ died for the whole world, and God's love is
freely offered to everyone. So, when we deal with other people, no matter who
they are or how different we are to them, we are to offer equally God's grace to
each one.
Prayer: Lord, help us to see one another through Your holy eyes. Grant us the
gifts of toleration and compassion, so that we may effectively witness to Your
mercy and grace. In Your holy name, we pray. Amen.
John Stuart traqair@aol.com
Knoxville, Tennessee, USA
Thanks to http://daily.presbycan.ca
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