See through God’s Eyes
David Anderson of Independence, MO, USA
‘…just as you did it to one of the least of these who are members of my family, you did it to me.’ -Matthew 25:40 NRSV
One of my least-favored chores when moving to another state or country is getting a new driver’s license. I uneasily wonder, “Will I have to take a written test? Did I study the right information? Oh, no, will I have to go behind the wheel?!”
As I sat in the waiting area at the Department of Motor Vehicles office recently, I judged the heavily-tattooed young woman behind the counter to be less than enamored with her job. Watching as she slowly popped her chewing gum, I mused how workers must have to distance themselves in thought for protection against the strain and monotony of solving the endless problems of customers dealing with the licensing process.
As we continued to wait, an elderly, shabbily-dressed woman moved slowly toward the window to take her turn. When the young woman began the transaction, her manner became focused, and her gaze softened as she waited patiently for the customer to count out the cash that was owed. Finally, the elderly woman realized she did not have enough and became agitated.
The young woman placed her hand on the aged hand and pronounced, “Don’t worry.” She then reached for her purse behind the counter and pulled out her own money, maybe money she also sorely needed. The young woman then said nonchalantly, “I will add this.” The older woman nodded an acknowledgment and ambled away as the clerk called, “Next.”
No emotion, no fanfare-simply an act of kindness when nothing was expected in return.
Prayer Phrase
In God, I live and move and have my being.
Spiritual Practice
Breathing in the Spaces
When you move into different spaces throughout your day, consciously place yourself in the new setting with a desire to be alert to God’s presence. Over time, simply taking a deliberate breath will remind you that you are in God’s presence and that you want to be alert to God’s purposes in that setting. When entering the different spaces in your day (workplace, a colleague’s office, a restaurant or place of business, school or places where people meet) pause and take a deliberate breath. When returning home, pause to take a breath. As you take a deep breath, breathe in the goodness of the profound presence and purposes of God in each place you find yourself. Allow yourself to be drawn to people who may be blessed in simple ways by you being aware of them as persons of worth. -adapted from missionalleaders.org
Today’s Prayer for Peace
Engage in a daily practice of praying for peace in our world. Click here to read today’s prayer and be part of this practice of peace.
