"People"

We know that people need to change,

We know they need God’s grace,

We know that they don’t realize,

That they should seek His face.

So we need to ask the question,

How can we let them know,

How best to communicate,

And His love to show.

You really can’t expect them,

To gather up with you,

Or try to clean up their own act,

Or behave and have a clue.

And we can’t always go to,

The places where they play,

‘Cause it’s simply not acceptable,

To participate that way.

So maybe like the Savior,

We can love and be a friend,

Refuse to harshly judge them,

Give mercy, to them lend,

A helping hand and kindness,

And a listening, caring heart,

It’s not that complicated,

Just find a place to start.

With the sad, young single mother,

Or that old man down the street,

Or the one in jail forgotten,

Or the one by chance you meet.

And we know it is not possible,

To give help to everyone,

But don’t let that prevent you,

From helping only one.

“Why does your teacher eat with such scum?” (Mt. 9:11, NLT)

Jesus caught flack for associating with people whom the Pharisees considered unclean. His ministry to “sinners” was intentional. He ate and drank with them, meaning He connected socially with them. This does not mean He condoned their behavior. It does mean that He took a non-judgmental approach when trying to help people. We would do well if we do the same. People will not be threatened, argued, or shamed into Christian conversion. Rather, mercy paves the way for authentic healing and change. Let’s learn to be merciful.

Lord, help us connect mercifully with others, in Jesus’ name.

Art by Rob Walther, used by permission. Thanks, Rob, and God bless you.