Noticing the Worker It Is Easy to Walk Past
A busy day can narrow our attention to the next task. The person cleaning the room, carrying a delivery, or answering the same question again can become someone we barely notice. There is room to slow down and offer ordinary respect.
must not show favoritism.
(James 2:1, NIV, excerpt)
James confronts a church that gives a wealthy visitor special attention while dishonoring a poor one. He calls favoritism sin and directs believers toward love of neighbor. Faith in the glorious Lord Jesus changes how we treat people with different social standing.
Let respect show in the small encounter
Carry that teaching into your everyday interactions. Greet people with the same courtesy you would offer someone whose approval you wanted.
Pay attention to the person speaking. Be patient with necessary procedures and make reasonable requests. A sincere thank-you can name the work you appreciate.
If you have responsibility for a team, consider whose contribution is regularly overlooked. Include appropriate recognition and fair opportunities to be heard.
Bring your own habits before Jesus. Ask Him to expose favoritism and teach you to see a neighbor in the person in front of you. Practice that attention in the next ordinary exchange.
A prayer
Lord Jesus, forgive the favoritism that shapes our attention. Teach us to treat people with genuine respect and patience. Let our words, expectations, and everyday choices reflect love for our neighbors. Amen.
Keep reading: The Wisdom of Stepping Back From a Quarrel · When an Opportunity Needs a Thoughtful No.
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The person doing the overlooked work is a neighbor worth noticing.
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