From the Pastor…       Did You See That?

Whether you’re trying to learn in hockey or trying to learn in life, I’ve always tried to be observant and tried to learn more, tried to evolve, whether it’s as a hockey player or as a person. With each year, I try to do that. — Sidney Crosby

On any given day, you and I miss seeing more things than we see. Our scope of vision is narrowed by what we choose to pay attention to. We just don’t observe it all.

I think of the times that I have ridden as a passenger in a car traveling a route I have driven often, and I am amazed at how many things along that route I missed because my attention was always focused on the road and not what was on each side of the road. Staying focused while driving is good and distracted driving is dangerous. But when we can, we should look around and take in our surroundings.

Hunting has helped me be more observant. Sitting still in a tree stand for hours at a time… what is there to do but observe the countless details of nature? The shape of trees and leaves, the evidence of animal activity, the sounds of birds singing, insect sounds pervading the woods, the flow of a breeze, or the effects of a passing cloud. – I should be so observant when I am with people.

Apathy keeps us from really seeing what is happening with our coworker, friend, or neighbor.  Being self-absorbed limits our ability to see the hurt or need being experienced by others. The more we lose ourselves and our egos, the more we live helpfully to people around us. – Jesus was a guest in the home of Simon when a lowly woman anointed his feet with her tears.  Jesus turned to Simon and asked, “Do you see this woman?”  He obviously did not; but Jesus did, and he understood her feelings.

So, look up!  Look down.  Look around. Listen carefully.

There is more to this complex world to see every day.

                 God’s best to you today,     

                                  Lee