People Watching

“Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven.” (Luke 6: 37)

I love to go to the mall and just watch the people. I have uttered those thoughtless words from my own mouth. What I could easily have said is this: I enjoy judging others. OUCH! I now realize that when I am not on the bench people-watching, there are others who take my place and look at me. YIKES!

They see me with my flamingo T-shirts and earrings and probably wonder about this white-haired old lady. What they don’t know is the hysterical, yet loving, inside joke between the women of my family and how happy and proud I am to wear this stuff.

How quickly we judge outward appearances. Have you seen the beautiful calligraphy talents that Sue uses to write encouraging notes to others? How about the love that went into the baked goods that were donated for Confirmation celebrations? Were you able to hear the praise band practice early before church as they volunteer their time every week to lead us closer to His throne?

There is so much going on behind the scenes that we can’t possibly observe; all the positive things that make others smile. Yet, we tend to focus on the blue hair, the new jeans that came with holes, and the shirt that is a little too tight in all the wrong places.

So, while we are on this subject, have you ever thought to yourself: I’d like to be like them? How about this: I wish I had what they have. To think those thoughts would indicate that we are not content with our own life. I believe that our Father is offended when we are less than grateful with what He has provided. Let’s get real; you don’t know what anyone else’s life is like. They may be totally lost, alone and miserable. Is that what you want?

As far as I know there is only one true and capable Judge and He has acquitted us through the unparalleled sacrifice of His own blood. That is really good news because that takes some weight off my shoulders. I just don’t want that job.

Jesus, Friend of Sinners with Casting Crowns

Father God, please help us to think of others and view them through Your loving eyes. Forgive our unkind thoughts and dissatisfaction with life. AMEN.