Oh, The Places We Will Go

Have you ever decided to do something that was a major step out of your comfort zone—something that was risky? Of course, if it is risky that means it might not succeed. Oftentimes, when I contemplate an action like that I decide to stay comfortable.

Oh, the places we won’t go (apologies to Dr. Seuss) when we try to stay comfortable. I have spent far too much of my life avoiding those places of discomfort. The thing is that Jesus did not seek his own comfort, nor the comfort of others. He sought to bring people into life-giving relationship with the One who began it all.

And how do we participate in that—first, by looking into the eyes of another and seeing them for who they are; second, by listening to the voice of the other and learning their story; third, by matching your stride to theirs so you can walk side-by-side; fourth, by taking time to be with them; fifth, by learning what are their goals in life; sixth, by learning to sing with them; and seventh, by looking into their eyes and seeing Jesus.

Oh, the places we will go with Jesus when we decide to risk being in real relationship with our neighbor. Will you dare? Will you risk it?

Mark 2:17

When Jesus heard this, he said to them, ‘Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick; I have come to call not the righteous but sinners.’