I had a big revelation recently.
When I tell you about it, I'm afraid you'll say "Duh, that's obvious."
But it altered my perspective so much I thought I'd pass it on... because it might help YOU.
Anyway...
I was having one of those days when every human encounter was an irritation.
Ever have those days?
I had an agenda... and a list to work through...
... so every question... or car on the road... or casual conversation...
... or phone call or text...
... became an intrusion to the important things I had to get done.
After all... I was doing ministry stuff...
... so it had to be more important than anything anyone else was doing!
Then all of a sudden it hit me.
I don't know who I was talking with or where I was, but all I could think about was that the person in front of me was made in God's image.
And I realized further this person was not an inconvenience but an opportunity to encounter and serve God through this being created in His likeness.
After this realization settled in, I think I gulped... and felt ashamed for the way I had been viewing people that day.
Since then, I've had some confirmation my thinking is now on the right track...
C.S. Lewis observed our neighbors are the holiest objects presented to our senses.
And, the Apostle James pointed out those we curse are made in the likeness of God.
So if people are bothering you, remember who they represent.
And remember... whoever God has brought your way may likely be more important than anything on your 'to do' list.
As well as His appointed way for you to advance His kingdom at the moment.