The better half

I, John, have been spending perhaps too much time wondering what kind of impression I have on people. How does the passer-by see me; how do my co-workers see me; how does my family see me; how do the people at church see me?

Does that matter? I think it does. Not in the sense that I will strive to become what 'they' like, but more in line with "Do they see me as I wish to be seen?"

I think there are two halves to me.

One half is the person I want to be.
One half is the person others see me as.

So as I think, I contemplate what is within my control. More than I might like. It is easy to blame others for their "incorrect" perceptions of me, but a much more noble task to act in such a way that they have "no other choice" but to see me the way I want to be seen.

As I read that sentence I hope it makes sense.

The church service today was about compassion. Compassion being a combination of two halves- a soft heart and a willing hand.

I would like to think I have both, but really I have a willing hand with a dense heart.

As a Christian it is my chosen lifestyle to follow Jesus' example- so was he compassionate? More than anything else.

Jesus never passed up an opportunity to help. When his disciples encouraged him to escape the crowd, Jesus chose to serve them. When the masses pushed past one downtrodden, Jesus sought out the individual and served him. Jesus always put others before himself. Yep- every time. If there are any reading this that wonder what Christianity is- please don't loook at me because I am a failure.

Look at Jesus. If you look with sincerity you will find that he turned away from power and glory. He served the lepers, criminals, poor, prostitutes, etc. with all he had. He treated everyone with respect regardless of religion, race, gender. (go ahead- challenge me).

When I think of my two halves, I like to think I am a lot like Jesus- but I must admit that I doubt others see me that way.

I have a lot of work to do.

See ya along the way.

-john