Day 1: Notice

Have you ever thought about the fact that most of us notice things way less than we used to? Let’s not just focus on screen time. How about how the screens interrupt us from noticing? They keep us from noticing two very important and necessary things: the beauty and the brokenness of the world around us. And both are vital aspects of being human.

We need to be noticing both. . . .

This is one thing that Jesus did so well.

He noticed. . . .

He walked at three miles an hour, and he took time to notice those who needed to be noticed.

He noticed the woman at the well.

He noticed that she was thirsty for more than just water—she was thirsty for love and acceptance. And he gave her both.

He noticed the tax collector, Zacchaeus, who was completely despised by his own community (and for good reason). But Jesus noticed the good inside Zacchaeus and his longing for forgiveness. Once again, Jesus gave what was needed.

He noticed the woman who was caught in adultery and filled with fear and shame as she was about to be stoned. But because he noticed her, he offered her grace and mercy.

He noticed the lepers who were outcasts from society. He noticed their pain and isolation and offered them healing and acceptance.

Jesus’ ability to notice people was central to his calling.

Prayer

Father, thank you for sending Jesus to be a model for me, and please help me follow his example as I notice those around me. Amen.