Watching people is a great way to spend time. The spectrum the goes by in almost any location is amazing. Sizes vary. Attitudes cover an extreme range. Attire reaches out to comfort and stun. Personal values show on the sleeves and skirts. Everything begins to create assumptions and judgments in the eyes of others. People tell their own stories, sometimes fact, usually fiction.
It is easy to forget that we do not know the complete story by the externals. At times, the words and pictures on the outside are so strong and vivid that one forgets or begins to be swirl in the words. I forget about the insides because I know that my eyes are not deceiving me; or are they? With the watching and reading, something happens; I am not sure what it is however it usually ends up with something less than the whole.
God looks through the externals to the real person hiding inside. He seeks to understand the missing pieces and offer grace and mercy to deal with the gaps. He walks beside, extending acts of love to point the way.
I continue to find myself caught in what I see, confidant that I understand the underlying values. Most of the time, it is my own errors and choices passed on to others. In each case, I find myself reacting to, and dealing with someone other than the true person inside. There is an alternative!
God accepts me just as I am. I can start to understand others by doing the same thing. God offers me a fresh start. I can begin to experience this gift by living as if it is true.
God looks through the externals to understand what I am trying to say. I can be truthful in all circumstances, especially to and with my soul.
Life begins when I do follow God’s model. Accept others just as they are, give away as many fresh starts as needed, and search for the picture within. We can walk together. So “all colors and races, give hearty praise!” (Romans 15.11)
