God’s People Too I understood the people’s reactions to me — the glancing looks, keeping their distance in silence. Like others in the waiting room, I was there to see the cardiologist because I had recently experienced a heart attack. But my orange prison jump suit, shackles, handcuffs, and two armed guards didn’t exactly help me to fit in. Then an elderly woman walked in, smiled, and said, “God bless. I hope you’re doing well.” I responded, “I’m fine.” Suddenly my anxious feelings were replaced with calm. “Thank you,” I added. Afterwards in the van heading back to the prison, I thought how that one person looked beyond the outward signs of what most consider a second-class citizen and saw a person — a person who, though surely one of God’s own people, was in many ways estranged from the human family. Maybe it was simply that she saw an opportunity to do good. The apostle Paul reminds us that as Christians we are called to show consideration and care for others, particularly for those in need and “of low position.” While such actions may not always come naturally, that special effort can make a significant and lasting impression on people’s lives. It did for me. Romans 15:1-7 15:1 We who are strong ought to put up with the failings of the weak, and not to please ourselves. 15:2 Each of us must please our neighbor for the good purpose of building up the neighbor. 15:3 For Christ did not please himself; but, as it is written, The insults of those who insult you have fallen on me. 15:4 For whatever was written in former days was written for our instruction, so that by steadfastness and by the encouragement of the scriptures we might have hope. 15:5 May the God of steadfastness and encouragement grant you to live in harmony with one another, in accordance with Christ Jesus, 15:6 so that together you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. 15:7 Welcome one another, therefore, just as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of G
Posted on: Mon, 11 Nov 2013 11:46:25 +0000
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