Give Me Your Eyes

Acts 11: 1-18

In those days, the Jews considered themselves the chosen people. They were the ones God loved and protected. All others were Gentiles, non-Jews, considered unclean, unworthy of the Lord’s grace and mercy. What made them think that just because others were not born into that elite group they were less than they, and not privileged to know the savior? What makes us think there are people in our world who do not deserve to be a child of God?

Even back in Genesis 12, the Lord spoke to Abraham saying “…all people on earth will be blessed through you.” He did not say those who are in a particular group or of specific status, but ALL PEOPLE. That means you, me, your ornery neighbor, the unborn child, old men and women across the globe, and the proclaimed atheist you see on television. This declaration was all inclusive.

I encourage you to journey through the next few days, keeping this in mind. No matter where you are, what or who you encounter, do your best to keep in the forefront of your mind that each and every person you come across is a child of God, welcome in His heavenly kingdom. Regardless of how rude the clerk may be, how uncaring your ex-wife may come across, or how self centered your teenager is, see them all as innocent children of the Lord with a purpose on this earth.

This reminds me of a strategy that was once shared with me regarding dealing with difficult people. I was told that when confronted in a negative or uncomfortable manner, I should view that person with no clothes on. This was not meant to be a perverted way to deal with a situation, but to be real about who people really are. We all came into this world the same way, naked and vulnerable, innocent and pure. It is the world that changes us, and pulls us away from that beautiful God given condition.

So, let’s be real, loving and accepting all people the way our God loves us. Ask the Lord to give you His eyes so you can see all people the way He sees us…..as His children.

Read/Listen to Acts 11:1-18

See and listen to "Give Me your Eyes" by Brandon Heath

Keeping Cool When Things Heat Up

Acts 7:1-16 (NIV) Then the high priest asked him, "Are these charges true?"  

Stephen, while being questioned by the religious leaders, found himself accused by liars planted in the crowd. Even though innocent of these crimes, Stephen was calm and collected as he responded to his accusers. Using wisdom of the Holy Spirit he painted a picture for his enemies of their family tree.

The Sanhedrin, as religious scholars, likely studied scriptures more than most. The story narrated by Stephen would be familiar to these men and they would be able to discern the truth Stephen told. One would think they knew better, but it was obvious there were ulterior motives involved.

At times we operate with questionable ethics; we act out of selfish ambition or greed to obtain a place of power or authority over others. As humans we place our desire for comfort and convenience over sound morals and good principles.

The Sanhedrin acted out of fear. What are our motives? How often do I know better, but operate out of my own selfish ambition and desire for fame or fortune? Some days I have to remind myself over and over that a Christian doesn't act the way I just did. 

My impatience with drivers on the road is a good example of sin in my life. I found myself praying for God to change my heart but within the time it took me to drive five miles I had caught myself scolding two drivers.  It doesn't matter if they were in the right or not, it was not my place to even think the thoughts I was thinking.  Muttering under my breath only fills me with angst and puts me in a foul mood for the rest of the morning. This is not the behavior God wants his children to practice.

How do we overcome this type of behavior? I know that I need to stay close and in constant communication with Jesus.  I must call upon him, listen to praise and worship music on the radio, and remind myself minute by minute of Jesus' love for me and the grace He lavishes.  Practice, practice, practice.

Acts 7:1-16

Hide 'N Seek -- Matthew 11:20-30

At that time Jesus said, “I praise you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because you have hidden these things from the wise and learned, and revealed them to little children. Yes, Father, for this is what you were pleased to do. (Matthew 11:25-26)

Do you remember playing Hide 'n Seek as a child, laying your head against a tree while burying your eyes in your arms and counting to ten? Everyone would then scatter and hide.  The text today reminded me of kid's games, simple, fun and innocent.

The innocence of children is infectious.  Their naivety is charming and it seems that Jesus thought so too.  Have you ever listened to the prayers of a child?  If you are in need of a strong dose of faith, just listen as your child or grandchild prays.

We learn from the lesson today that Jesus was disappointed in some from the cities where he performed miracles.  He said that if the same miracles were performed in other towns the people would learn and change their wicked ways.  But they did not; they were too smart, too worldly to recognize truth.

Jesus chose instead to reveal his truths to children, or those who don't have much book learning, who are open minded and willing, who are "weary and heavy laden".  I live each day now, surrounded by truth and love in it's simplest form.  I am  totally at the mercy of Jesus and wouldn't have it any other way.

To read the text for today click here.