Romans 15:7-9 (HCSB)

^“7 Therefore accept one another, just as the Messiah also accepted you, to the glory of God. ⁸ For I say that the Messiah became a servant of the circumcised on behalf of God’s truth, to confirm the promises to the fathers, ⁹ and so that Gentiles may glorify God for His mercy. As it is written: Therefore I will praise You among the Gentiles, and I will sing psalms to Your name.“

This passage breathes Christ’s character onto a hurting world. Will you emulate His likeness? During our recent travels, I was easily reminded of the hurt and division within our world, even close to home. One can simply witness the overwhelming lack of acceptance and patience for our fellow man when traveling through an airport. You see, I am a people-watcher. I am always intrigued by the masses of people – what’s their story? Do they know Jesus? Where do they live? Where are they going? I am amazed how God knows each and every person intimately. Even more, I will never get used to the overt lack of human curtesy and acceptance as a people group. I pray for a nation-wide, world-wide heart change!

God used two very different personal encounters just this weekend to highlight this verse today. On one encounter, a gentleman demonstrated distain and frustration over the lack of coordination and speed during an airport security checkpoint as he verbalized, “All these workers, and they still can’t get anything done in a timely manner – figures -government bureaucracy!” My heart broke. I was convicted in the moment. You see, I used to be that person – negative, impatient, and rude; all things that do not point to Jesus. However, praise God I had a personal encounter with Jesus Christ that changed my life’s perspective and mission.

The second encounter was just moments after, but it was one I won’t forget in a different way. After ordering a burger and sitting in a very generic booth, I quickly observed this young lady working with a smile! I must admit, this can be rare to see but a pleasant sight nonetheless.  There it is–someone acting like Jesus. Is she a believer? I do not know, but what I can answer is the mere fact that this young lady was happy to be serving others – all types of customers. As we get up to leave and throw away our trash, she offers to take our trash for us. I politely decline as I smile and say thank you! My thank you was meant for more than a “thank you for doing your job.” Yes, it was meant to communicate far more. She was living like Jesus. She didn’t have to say a word but her actions spoke!

Who receives pleasure, pure joy, in picking up other’s trash? Don’t answer so quickly. There are very few in this world who truly demonstrate this type of a servant’s heart. However, as believers we are all called to be servants. We are called to be accepting. We are called to live like Jesus. There is only one whom I know that IS perfect and chose to take my “trash” so that I may become a co-heir with Him – JESUS!

Question: Are you humble enough to serve others – be the hands and feet of Christ today!

Thankful,

Christian Armetta