far as the East is from the West

In the past few weeks, I have noticed myself holding back tears multiple times a day. The emotions come when I realize the weight of the world around me – my 6 year old sister about to undergo major brain surgery, the constant political tension in the United States or stories of special needs kids being shown kindness and respect.

If you know me, you know that I don’t cry very often. I have often taken pride in the fact that I don’t cry, that I’m not the more emotional one in the relationship. Looking back, I needed to give this to Jesus stat!

About a month or so ago, I prayed for Jesus to break my heart for what breaks His. Just think about this for a second – this is a BIG ask! I have prayed this prayer several times over the last 5 years but I never felt like anything happened (I was expecting the same thing after praying this last month). The difference between the most recent ask was my heart posture, I actually wanted to see the world the way He sees it, I wanted to know his heart. He never causes pain – only redeems it.

Jesus is in as much pain as I am about my sisters surgery, He is hurting over the political divide in our nation, He is rejoicing over the kindness and respect that is given to His children.

God did not create this world to bring chaos and disorder, yet to bring peace and purpose. He wants to give us a heart of compassion and understanding. That when our neighbor, literal or not, is in a place of need we can fill it. He will give us the resources if we trust him. He will never leave you alone! Be a good neighbor – make that meal for the family in need, listen the person you disagree with and be slow to speak (your tone and body language speak as well).

Instead of being offended at what your friend said or didn’t say, give grace! Living a life full of offense will only bring anxiety into your life. Yet ask Jesus to show you His heart on things and CHOOSE to walk that out, if that means crying because a stranger displayed an act of kindness, do it. Let yourself feel emotions (I’m talking to myself on this), Jesus felt every emotion.

Choosing to ignore these emotions would be so much easier, but choosing to view the world the way Jesus sees it is so much brighter. I can already see the ways I get to be the hands & feet of Jesus. Ask him to show you what He sees, don’t be frustrated at journey instead of an overnight download.

Hannah