I got to this afternoon and suddenly felt unaccountably tired... bone-weary almost. There seemed no reason for this until I started adding up the people I had been with today:
- My family
- A school Scripture class of about 20 very energetic primary school children
- Play group- 3 adults plus about 200 children (OK it was actually 6 children, but preschoolers seem worth about 30 older children each)
- A committee consisting of about 8 people- some of whom are not christians
- An intellectually challenged man seeking a computer; he was also a little difficult socially
- Several people in the bookshop
- Several phone calls- of varying depth of connecting.
And along the way there were quite a few things that just HAD to be done!
When I look at my day like that, it's not surprising that the end of the day leaves me feeling worn out!
Each of these occasions was in some ways an opportunity for me to be Jesus to these people.
There were needs there in some of these people, so just showing a little compassion or empathy goes a long way to "being Jesus".
We talked at the committee meeting about how little respect there seems to be in our society and this shows up in all kinds of ways from "road rage" to domestic violence and child abuse. So just showing respect and care for people also shows the love of God.
Sometime I have to remind myself about these things when people seem to crowd in on me- especially those who are a little bit challenged in social skills, or who want more of my attention than I think they should get. Being task oriented I have to tell myself "people are what I do."
A colleague of mine talks sometimes of quality people. I think all people are quality people to God. That means that they deserve quality time- my attention, my respect and my compassion.
I took time out at the end of the working day to immerse myself in the presence of God. I listened to a meditation on scripture and let the Spirit of God wash over me. Suddenly I feel refreshed and able to move on... ready for the next challenge!
Blessings
Keith
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