One minute read.
Daily Reading: Judges 17:1-18:31, John 3:1-21, Psalm 104:1-24, Proverbs 14:20-21
Daily Verse: “The poor is disliked even by his neighbor, but the rich has many friends.” Prov. 14:20
Don’t Let Possessions Determine Popularity
Excited to meet their new pastor, the congregation shuffled past a homeless man sitting on the steps. In disheveled clothes, disguised well, no one paid attention to him. As the well-dressed attendees noticed him, they passed by him, not saying a word, no one offering help.
When the service began, the elders (in on the plan) introduced the new pastor. The homeless man stood from his seat in the back of the sanctuary, walked to the pulpit, and recited Matthew 25:31-40.
“The king will reply, “I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.” Matthew 25:40
Sharing what he experienced that morning with the congregation, many cried, bowing their heads in shame. After challenging them to become more like Jesus, he dismissed the service until the following week. (Read the full story here.)
Don’t let possessions determine who gets your attention. Love like Jesus, whomever God puts before you, rich or poor.
Lord, forgive us for letting possessions determine who gets our attention. As we move through our days, help us notice everyone You place before us. Help us love like Jesus, no matter a person’s wealth. IJNIP. Amen
