Seeking the smile of God's approval

     

  

     This morning as I began my day — and wishing to spend some quiet moments with Bible in hand — I was directed to the passage in Luke 18: 9-14. 

     Jesus was speaking a parable to his listeners, (a parable is a short story with hidden moral or spiritual meanings). 

     Jesus often used these in His teachings. He was describing a Pharisee and a tax collector, both who went to the temple to pray. The Pharisee had no trouble telling God how righteous he was, as he related all he did and didn't do. 

     Meanwhile, the tax collector, who was considered one of the worst sinners of his day, feeling so unworthy, lifted his prayer to God asking for mercy and forgiveness. It is obvious who went away justified. 

     Relating this parable, I think Jesus wanted us to understand that it is not what we do that makes us right with God, rather, it is God who makes us right with Him. 

     I often find it easy to compare myself with others, saying like the Pharisee, "I'm sure glad I'm not like..." I know too often, I am quick to give an opinion, perhaps showing a judgmental and know-it-all attitude without understanding the full story, I end up showing little compassion. 

     This adage supposedly dating back to the Cherokee tribe of Native Americans, says it right — "Don't judge a man until you have walked a mile in his moccasins." 

     

     Also, Nelle Harper Lee in her bestseller book, To Kill a Mockingbird, wrote, "You never really know a man until you understand things from his point of view, until you climb into his skin and walk around in it." 

     I believe our neighbourhoods would be so much better if we all chose to develop empathy towards our fellow man. 

     God's Word tells us, "Do not judge or you, too, will be judged." (Matthew 7:1) 

     God, knowing all things, is the only rightful judge and will one day do just that. 

     

     Humility is a character trait I desire to see more of in my life. "For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted." 

     I also want to be quick to listen and slow to speak, (James 1:19), as I seek to reflect my Heavenly Father's heart of love.    

     My prayer is this. "May the smile of God's approval be upon me this day."

— beulah