A few weeks ago following my devotions, I decided to look for beauty and God-spark in each person I encountered. If I truly believe that all people are made in God's image, if I truly am serious about my Kingdom walk with Jesus, if I truly am authentic, then rather than seeing people as messed-up, ugly, chubby, smelly, trite, pretentious, annoying jerks, I should be consciously looking for the beauty and God-spark in each one. Everyone. No exceptions.

"So, Carol, how're you doing with that?" you ask with a grin.

Apparently I still have some work to do.  On my recent flight to Phoenix, I was scanning the airport lines as we prepared to board. Yeah, there was that one person.... "Please, I don't want to sit next to him." You could tell in his countenance he was cranky, very cranky. He was also large, very large.  A simple sentence to describe his appearance?  He was a very large, cranky, old man.  I was also sure, even from just using my sight, that he emitted unpleasant effluvium.

You guessed it. You know it.  You're laughing about it.  Not funny.

Mr. Crank was at the window spilling copiously into my seat like bread that's been rising too long, and on the other side of me was Mr. Gun Magazine. Perfect for this peace-loving woman. I scooted as far to the right (not my norm!) ;)  next to Mr. Magazine as I could, keeping my arms across my chest to protect from the "wax on/wax off" elbow movements of Mr. Crank as he attempted unsuccessfully to buckle-up. As he twisted and lurched, small sounds with nasty emanations resulted. He growled at the flight attendant who asked him to gather his reading materials from the floor as we were seated in the escape exit aisle. sigh.

How did I do with my beauty and spark discipline? Failure. I did not look very hard at all for beauty or God-spark. I did not attempt to offer any assistance. I did not attempt conversation. At the very least I was barely tolerant as I kept my eyes and nose in my book and hoped there would be no delays on the flight.

Jesus calls us to so much more than tolerance. It is true! In reflection of  this event, I realize I was counting on the inadequate, defective, deficient "love of Carol," rather than tapping into the abundant, perfect, complete, love of God that is available to transform. Now, the question for me is, "Do I really want to pray for a second chance?"

Compassion: our daily bread and wine. "Do this in remembrance of me." Take time to eat and drink of it today.

Our scripture for Sunday: Romans 12: 1-2, 9-21
 I appeal to you therefore, brothers and sisters, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your minds, so that you may discern what is the will of God—what is good and acceptable and perfect.

 Let love be genuine; hate what is evil, hold fast to what is good;  love one another with mutual affection; outdo one another in showing honor. Do not lag in zeal, be ardent in spirit, serve the Lord.  Rejoice in hope, be patient in suffering, persevere in prayer. Contribute to the needs of the saints; extend hospitality to strangers.

Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse them. Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep. Live in harmony with one another; do not be haughty, but associate with the lowly; do not claim to be wiser than you are. Do not repay anyone evil for evil, but take thought for what is noble in the sight of all. If it is possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all. Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave room for the wrath of God; for it is written, “Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.” No, “if your enemies are hungry, feed them; if they are thirsty, give them something to drink; for by doing this you will heap burning coals on their heads.” Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.

"Called to God's Reign" is Brother Nelson's message title for this designated "Peace Sunday" by Mennonite Church USA and Mennonite World Conference. In his pre-sermon notes Nelson says, "I hope we can begin to see that peace is not an 'add-on' but is the essence of God's work of restoration of the world and its inhabitants, to God, and each other. God reigns and invites all to join the God movement of restoration." The worship service begins at 10:15 a.m.  The Christian formation hour begins at 9 a.m., and the young adults and senior high youth will join together for the "Jesus is____" study. 

  

There are many events and opportunities to consider. Check out the bulletin for details. http://www.ridgeviewmennonite.net/bulletins/current.pdf  I hope you'll join us!

Prayer for today:  From the rising of the sun to its setting, the name of the Lord is to be praised! Compassionate God, let us be transformed by your love and grace into the people you designed us to be.  For we are your workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which you prepared for us.  Open our eyes to see each other as you see us. Take us beyond tolerance to genuine compassion that comes from You and is your very essence.  Come Kingdom of God. Be done will of God, here on earth as it is in heaven. In Jesus name. AMEN. 

Without question or doubt, you are loved by God, and I love you too!

Love and Light,
Carol

(PS For a closer look at the photos, click on them!) 

http://www.ridgeviewmennonite.net/

"Always remember who you are, whose you are, where you are going, and what you believe, because it does make a difference! Oh, and don't forget to attend a church of your choice this weekend." jd