Troubling Moment.

Today I found myself out running an errand at a local store. While there I happened to be next to a young man and his mom (?). He was about 16 or 17 and was looking through the clothes in the same area as me.

While browsing he was keeping up a constant stream of comments about life, the clothes he was being asked to look at and just about everything else under the sun. I won't repeat what he said, it really wasn't for public consumption.

What I found most interesting about this even was my own reaction. When it first occurred I was ready to chalk it up as another example of a "young punk" who was most likely going to end up on the six o'clock news with a wanted sign under his picture. I was bothered by what he was saying and how he was acting. I felt like saying somethings, but frankly was unsure of what would happen next. so I just grit my teeth and moved on.

Later in the the day as I had time to to sit with what I had experienced and what I had thought while it was occurring it gave me pause to think. Yes, what the boy had done was inappropriate, but then again so was my reaction.

I have no idea what this young mans life was like. I have no idea what burdens or troubles he may have. I have no idea what role models or mentors may be in his life. I have no idea what may have just occurred in his life to make home feel that way he did.

Yet, here I was, ready to convict him and throw away the key. I wonder is that what Jesus would have done? Would he have condemned him or offer him a hand of friendship? As a disciple of Jesus, shouldn't I be willing to reach out, no matter what the situation or how difficult it might be.

Lord, forgive. Help me to be faithful even when it is difficult. Help me to see past the outside and look inward. Help me to look at others with the same eyes of love that I believe you look at me.