Theme: 2011 - A Year of Maximum Impact
Weekend Music links on iTunes: Time Has Come - Hillsong, Happy Day - Jesus Culture, 'Til I See You - Hillsong, How He Loves - David Crowder
Read: Luke 21:1-4
Think: Have you noticed that 3D movies are making a big comeback? It seems that after the success of Avatar, it became pretty standard for blockbuster movies to be released in 3D. Even television sets are starting to go that direction. I’m not a huge fan, but I have to admit that putting on the special glasses can produce some pretty spectacular sights. Fuzzy images on the screen suddenly pop out in vibrant colors, and the action accelerates beyond what a 2D film can show.
In Luke 21, we read about a small action that Jesus saw. Apparently, Jesus and his followers were inside the Temple grounds in Jerusalem, within sight of the place where contributions to the temple treasury were received. As Jesus taught, he watched the rich making large contributions. Then, a poor widow put in two small copper coins. To other observers, this woman’s meager offering probably didn’t seem like much. But Jesus saw things differently. His respect for her gift and His love for her are obvious, and she becomes the example from which He wants His followers to learn. Jesus wanted their perspective to change so that they would see as He saw.
As we seek to develop a heart of compassion for others, there are several views of others that we can take. Yesterday, we considered what it means to see Christ in others. In today’s reading, the perspective is changed. Jesus wants to change what we see to be the same as what He sees. He wants to change us so that we view those around us with His eyes. As we change to be more like Jesus, we will see those around us with God’s love. Seeing ‘Christ in others’ sparks compassion; ‘Christ in me’ enriches it.
Do: Put on a pair of glasses (maybe some sunglasses if you don’t need a prescription pair). For a moment, imagine that in doing so you are putting on Jesus’ eyes. What do you see?
Pray: Thank you, Lord, for the example You set for me. I want to be more like You, to think, and hear, and speak as You would. I want to have the compassion for others that You have. Today, help me see those around me as You see them. Amen.
The eDevotional is written each week by a team of volunteers from Timberlake Church.