Wednesday night a visiting preacher asked, “What would you see if you looked at others with the same perspective as Jesus does?”
We’ve all been asked this question in some form during our lives, but have we ever asked ourselves this question and considered practical application?
Think of the neighbor who hasn’t mowed their lawn in weeks… with a fleshly perspective, we pass by and think, “It’s not that hard to get up and mow. I don’t understand their level of laziness.” However, when we see this neighbor as Jesus would, we see an opportunity to serve. We think, “I hope they’re doing okay. I know how busy and overwhelming life can be sometimes. How about I call and genuinely offer to help out.”
Think of the person, whether friend or stranger, who hurt your feelings this week… instead of becoming passive aggressive, shutting down, or firing back, when we see this person as Jesus would, we can completely forgive. We can say, “Hey, I know days are tough and I see you’re frustrated. I forgive you, and I’ll choose to see the best in you- just as Jesus deemed you worthy to die for despite your sins. I’ll also pray for you (not passive aggressively, but once again, genuinely).”
Think of the ONE person you just can’t get along with… chances are, you can’t get along with them because you disagree about silly, worldly matters. When we look at the life of Jesus, we see a perfect man who got along with everyone, even those who were radically different. And while we’re not perfect people, and we can never get along with everyone all the time, we can do our best by viewing them just as Jesus would. Proverbs 18:2 says, “A fool hath no delight in understanding, but that his heart may discover itself.” Do not ONLY focus on expressing your opinion and your heart, but genuinely take time to hear and understand the other perspective. You don’t have to agree, and it probably won’t change your mind, but just as you would love the chance to express your beliefs and passions, the other party would too. And if you can’t come to an understanding, remember Romans 14:1-4: “Him that is weak in the faith receive ye, but not to doubtful disputations. For one believeth that he may eat all things: another, who is weak, eateth herbs. Let not him that eateth despise him that eateth not; and let not him which eateth not judge him that eateth: for God hath received him. Who art thou that judgest another man’s servant? to his own master he standeth or falleth. Yea, he shall be holden up: for God is able to make him stand.” For God hath received them, and it is not our place to judge them- but to love them as Christ has loved us (John 13:34).
This week, let’s challenge ourselves to evaluate our hearts, be aware of the ways we view those around us, and make a conscious effort to both see others and practically serve/love them just as Jesus would.