Just like most people I see something that I think is wrong or not normal, I immediately jump to conclusions. Saying to myself that’s not right or that shouldn’t be, not knowing the whole story. This weekend I was placed in a couple of instances where the bell in my head was ringing but the small still voice inside of me wouldn’t let me cast my opinion either by facial expression or in my attitude or head.
I’m a very private person unless I know you well. I keep to myself and mind my business. First episode I was in the grocery store early Saturday morning and as normal in a rush to get out. I was stuck in line behind an older lady, and she was taking her time. I said to myself, be quiet, chill out, and it will be your turn soon. No sooner than I said that this lady walked by me and asked was I in line as if the basket I had wasn’t a clue, but I politely said yes, and she threw her 25Lb bag of dog food down and said I’m behind you. Then she walked off talking back and forth to herself very loudly asking and answering her own questions and quoting scriptures all at the same time.
The old me would have immediately moved out of her way while thinking this lady is crazy, but the small still voice said no, be still, don’t run, pray for her instead, and that’s what I did. It was obvious that she was struggling with a mental illness but not my place to judge her but pray for her.
Episode 2 was Sunday morning at church, I always try to sit at the end of the row because I don’t like to feel trapped in. Nevertheless, the service had started, and I was settled in. Right before the sermon was about to go forward, I got a tap on the shoulder. This young man was asking if he could have the end because of a medical issue, so I moved, and service proceeded. Now, I’m trapped but again the still small voice said don’t worry about it and my heart rate settled down and the preacher did his thing. It’s communion Sunday and the gentleman didn’t know what to do or why, so I found myself explaining it to him, opening the wine and bread set for him and telling him to take the instructions from the preacher and take the communion.
I say all that to say this, when we are quick to judge others, we miss out sometimes on helping those that need help. Rather it’s obvious to us or not. I truly believe that it was ordained for me to be in both of those places (a test) to see if the old me would react or the new me God is rebuilding would look past his problems or prejudices and help someone else.
As brothers and sisters in Christ let’s try our best to help and not be so quick to judge. You never know what someone is going through on the inside. Our act of kindness may just change something in them. May God continue to bless you, your brother in Christ…TMK.
