What Do You See?

A friend of mine took her little boy, Henry, to the doctor’s office for a checkup. As they were sitting in the crowded waiting room, a lady who looked tired and worn came in. Her unkempt, partly graying hair hung down unevenly to her shoulders, showing that she did not spend time styling her hair. But the most noticeable thing about her was the white dress she wore. It had huge red flowers on it that seemed to overpower her small frame.

Walking slowly over toward my friend, she plunked herself down in the chair next to three-year-old Henry. The child seemed taken by her presence, his eyes sweeping back and forth over her. My friend was getting nervous, wondering what might come out of her son’s mouth. Finally, the boy looked at the woman and said, “I really like your red flowers.” The lady kept looking straight ahead but smiled and said, “Thank you.” I am sure Jesus must have smiled, too, pleased with what the child noticed. While people notice what can be seen on the outside, the Lord sees inside us and knows what we can become. One day, while Jesus was teaching in the temple, He saw a woman all bent over. She had been unable to raise herself for the past eighteen years. People were used to seeing her like that and probably had some thoughts as to how she had come by her affliction. But Jesus did not look at her like everyone else.

He saw a woman suffering from an infirmity, and His heart was touched.

A word from Jesus to that woman changed her life—and her position.

On another day, the Savior observed people shying away from a leper.

They viewed the man as unclean and untouchable, but Jesus saw a whole man.

And that’s exactly what he became as soon as Jesus touched him.

It does not matter to Jesus what our position, appearance, or social status may be. We are all His children. He treats everyone with respect, dignity, and kindness.

It brings Him joy when His children treat others in the same manner.

It is my prayer that I will remember His example and, by His grace, always do the same.

Marcia Mollenkopf