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LOOK BEFORE YOU LABEL!

"Neither this man nor his parents sinned," said Jesus, "but this happened so that the work of God might be displayed in his life. John 9:3

When the disciples met a man who was blind from birth, they asked Jesus, ‘Whose sin caused this - his own or his parents?’ (Paraphrased).They weren’t concerned that the man needed help, or that he’d spent his life in total darkness. No, they immediately started discussing his shortcomings - right in front of him! Why? Because it’s easier to label than to love! We label things so we’ll know what’s inside - and we label people for the same reason. We’d rather debate homosexuality than befriend somebody who’s gay. We’d rather condemn divorce than help its victims. It’s easier to argue against abortion than to support an orphanage, or gripe about social services than to help the poor. Jesus said, ‘In the same way you judge- you will be judged’ (Matthew 7:2). Think you’re not guilty? Oh really? How about when you first meet somebody? Do you think, ‘Oh, you’re Lutheran’: (translation: must be narrow-minded). ‘You’re an accountant: (translation: probably boring). ‘You’re unemployed’: (translation: probably lazy). Aren’t you glad God doesn’t judge you by your appearance, or where you grew up, or your job, or the mistakes you’ve made, or even some of your recent attitudes? Jesus didn’t see this man as a victim of fate, He saw him as an opportunity waiting to happen. He told His disciples, “You’re looking for someone to blame - Look instead for what God can do” (John 9:3). Always remember, when people reject you - God accepts you. When they leave you - He finds you. The work of God is accepting, not judging; caring, not condemning; loving, not labeling!

Prayer
Heavenly Father, Help me to stop labeling people and start looking for ways in which I can love and serve them as you would! In Your Precious Name, Amen