Years ago, an older man joined our church. He’s long since gone to be with the Lord, but I’ve never forgotten him. The fascinating thing was how boldly he met people. He’d arrive early, dressed awkwardly, often with traces of his last few breakfasts on his tie. My immature self couldn’t help but laugh at the sight. But then my friend asked a question that stopped me cold: “I wonder how come God put this man in our lives, Jerry?”
That question challenged me. It opened my eyes and nudged me to see the situation differently. Though it’s been more than 30 years, the lesson still echoes whenever I’m tempted to judge or ridicule someone. After all, who knows what another person has been through? We’re all walking mysteries shaped by the unique paths we’ve traveled, filled with losses, triumphs, and everything in between.
It’s easy to look at others and compare them to myself, forgetting that God didn’t create us to look, act, or think the same way. I was so focused on outward appearances and how someone dressed or fit into the “acceptable” mold that I missed the more profound truth: God’s design is far more intricate than we see on the surface.
That older man’s life wasn’t a puzzle for me or a project to critique. What if the food-stained tie was just a detail from a difficult morning? What if his awkward manner hid burdens I couldn’t begin to understand? His presence wasn’t random. It was a divine reminder that everyone we meet is on a sacred journey.
Today, I try to live with this truth in mind: Everyone I encounter walks a path I may never fully understand. And really, the call isn’t to judge or compare but to show grace. I should see each person as God’s handiwork and show grace not critique. After all, grace is not just something to receive. Grace is something I am meant to extend.
How about you? Are you judging or asking why God put this person in your life?
Watch for the blind spots.
Get a copy of Blind Spots in Relationships. Discover the hidden behavior that could be holding you back from the relationships you desire. http://tinyurl.com/yc3usfsp
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