It’s such a small detail… I mean, you’d assume Jesus was looking a Peter when they met for the first time. But the fact that John 1:42 specifically says “Jesus looked at him“ before going on about the big moment when Jesus tells him what he is going to be called, makes me think that Jesus wasn’t so much concerned with pushing his own plans on Peter as he was focused on recognizing who Peter was.
Jesus looked at him.
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It makes me wonder, do I see people the way that Jesus does? Do I care about who they are and what their unique story is? Do I see them as children of God or do I see them as another person who needs another “thing” and then send them on their way?
There are some inspiring and beautiful stories that I get to hear, often when I least expect it. But it requires taking the time to really see people, and to focus on who they are more than what I can offer them.
Sometimes what people need to hear before the checklist or form are pulled out is that we recognize who they are as a brother or sister in Christ and that we care.
Give me Your eyes so I can see
Everything that I keep missing
Give me Your love for humanity
Give me Your arms for the broken-hearted
The ones that are far beyond my reach
Give me Your heart for the ones forgotten
Give me Your eyes so I can see