Seeing the Humanity in Everyone

Read 1 Corinthians 10:24

For today’s devotional, Jim Dressner shared a story from his time overseas in Asia. In that country’s context, extreme poverty would push many to begging on the streets, sometimes rather aggressively. It is easy to see those begging as a nuisance, something to be avoided, or even ignored. 

Jim shared how a fellow field worker challenged him not to see these people as obstacles to avoid, but rather to see the humanity in each one. This led Jim to pause and take time talking when a beggar would come to his window. He began asking for their names, learning about their family, and maybe even hearing part of their story.

Jim found that this was transformational for both him and for those begging. While he wouldn’t always give to them, it did create a sense of dignity and worth. This was true particularly on Jim’s regular commute routes where the beggars would see him coming and be sure to greet him and talk with him, even if no money was given.

In today’s world of social media, politics, and divisiveness it has become too easy to see people as “other”, and not as neighbors made in the image of God. Take time today to read 1 Corinthians 10:24 and reflect on how you approach people in your life.

Use this devotional as an opportunity to host a conversation with your friends, family, neighbors or small group. After watching today’s video post on eastbrook.org/devotionals/werefamily, use these steps to discuss the Bible passage for today:

• One person reads the Bible passage out loud while everyone else follows along.
• Each person take a turn restating the passage in their own words.
• Read the passage again.
• Have each person answer these questions:
  • “What does this tell me about God?”
  • “What does this tell me about me?”
  • “What does this tell me I ought to do?”
• Have each person share who they know that they will share this with.

by Jim Dressner