How many times have I stood in line at the supermarket with my face buried in my phone? If someone tries to start conversation, my response is usually distracted and even, I say sadly, uninterested. At work, at the doctor's office, in line, my focus is inward, on my own interest, be it a phone or a book....I am not engaged in the world around me. I close myself off because I don't want to be involved. Lately, I have been getting this little nudging that this is not the way God wants me to be. And today I read a devotional that really confirmed these gentle whispers to stop shutting myself off from those around me.
The devotional talked about smiling and being friendly. Sharing a smile with a stranger or making friendly conversation while waiting on line or for an appointment can create opportunities to be an encouragement, brighten someone's day or even share the Gospel.
Jesus always took time to interact with those around Him. He made the time. He made the effort. When I look at my behavior, it's just the opposite. Mostly, I go out of my way to avoid interaction! I am ashamed. I never really saw my behavior in this light before. But now that I have, I know it has to change. I want to "meet Jesus in the world" as I talked about a few weeks ago. I think this is another piece to that picture God was showing me in that statement made by my Pastor.
Open, available, friendly. This is how the Lord can use us as we go through our day. I want to be used by Him!
Lord, forgive me for be self focused and unavailable. I am open to Your leading, whenever and wherever You want. Help me to be brave even if it takes me out of my comfort zone. Help us all to be Your smile to those around us. In Jesus' Name, amen.
Put the phone away while waiting in line or for appointments this week.
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