In his own social interactions, Jesus was putting into practice “the great reversal” heralded in the Beatitudes. Normally in this world we look up to the rich, the beautiful, the successful.
Grace, however, introduces a world of new logic. Because God loves the poor, the suffering, the persecuted, so should we. Because God sees no undesirables, neither should we. By his own example, Jesus challenged us to look at the world through what Irenaeus would call “grace-healed eyes.”
–Philip Yancey
I need that “great reversal” in my own life. When I look at people without doing so through the lens of grace, I judge them, I get irritated with them, I compare my life to them, instead of simply loving them, feeling compassion or sorrow for those in need, and feeling joy for those who are experiencing blessings.
Therefore, my prayer this morning is… Jesus, give me “grace-healed eyes” and grace-filled eyes, so that I look at people with compassion and love – the way that you look at them. Help me to see with your eyes.
The Beatitudes: (from the New Living Translation)
“God blesses those who are poor and realize their need for him,
for the Kingdom of Heaven is theirs.
God blesses those who mourn,
for they will be comforted.
God blesses those who are humble,
for they will inherit the whole earth.
God blesses those who hunger and thirst for justice,
for they will be satisfied.
God blesses those who are merciful,
for they will be shown mercy.
God blesses those whose hearts are pure,
for they will see God.
God blesses those who work for peace,
for they will be called the children of God.
God blesses those who are persecuted for doing right,
for the Kingdom of Heaven is theirs.