Monday, November 13, 2023

Eyes to See

 



This is one of my all-time favorite videos.  Before you read too much further, please take a minute to watch it.  (if it looks like you need to buy something, you don’t.)  It does a phenomenal job of reining in my impatience, judging attitude, and general self-centeredness. 

 

Matthew 9:35 - When He saw the crowds, He had compassion on them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd.

 

Things to think about:

·       As recently as three days ago, I was on a plane when the guy in front of me leaned his seat all the way back and I could barely use my laptop.  I thought of all kinds of clever (and mean) things to say to him. 

o   And then I remembered this video.  I have no idea what hurts, fears, shame, guilt, etc. this guy might be going through, but I’ll guarantee you one thing, he is going through something.

§  How do I know? He’s BREATHING

§  Nobody gets a pass on the challenges life throws at us.

Do you tend to show mercy or malice as an initial response?

·       In Matthew, we read that Jesus takes a different tack than me

o   He had compassion on them because they were harassed and helpless

§  The Message says it like this, ‘’when he looked out over the crowds, his heart broke. So confused and aimless they were, like sheep with no shepherd.’’ 

o   His heart broke when I was still lost, and I didn’t even know His name

§  He sees us as lost sheep in need of a shepherd

§  How does that word picture encourage you to be more sympathetic?

How does His sacrifice on your behalf motivate you to be more generous in your attitude towards other people?

·       Can you think of a time when your attitude about someone changed when you knew more of their story?

o   What can we do to learn more about what others are going through?

·       If you would like some of the special glasses in the video, they’re actually available!

o   Matthew 9:36 - Then He said to His disciples, “The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into His harvest field.” 


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