a does of reality and perspective. . . .

Tonight Den and I drove to the other side of town to check out an item we were looking to purchase off of Craigslist.  The directions to this home took us through the "worst" of the city we live near.  When I say the "worst" I mean inner city blight at its very worst; it was heartbreaking and very humbling.  We passed abandoned, burned-out, neglected and trashed homes, many of which people are living in.  I could not help but think of all the times I complained about stuff in my life. . . .God used this 40+ minute van ride to put my life into perspective.  I began to pray for the families as we passed their homes; one lone lady sitting on the porch, a group of boys playing in the yard, a girl walking down the sidewalk; just bathing the entire area in prayer.   I began to ask God to bring someone along side them, someone who was wiling to live out their faith as a way of encouragement, not arrogant or proud; someone to offer friendship and to give them a life line of hope in Him.  All too often we pass judgment; we're quick to offer advice, but less quick to offer a hand; and even worse to get involved!  My heart was broken because I frequently look the other way; choosing to ignore their situations because it will cost; time, money, pride, you name it! Yet the reality of their situations mirror my life, though we are but a few miles apart. The Holy Spirit pierced my heart, causing me to hang my head in shame; that I would think myself better than those we passed.....it doesn't matter where you live, what you drive, where you work or how much or how little money you make, we are all the same in God's eyes, He loves us and wants us to come to Him, to worship Him, and to serve others.  I drank a strong dose of reality tonight and ate some humble pie along with it......