Did they really do that?

You’ve probably experienced something gross like this before: people who casually pick their nose right in front of you. 🫣 I saw it once recently when I was on a bus, and all I could think was: “Ewww… you just don’t do that!”

Then I looked around the crowded bus taking us from the plane to the terminal. Different people, different smells (good and not-so-good), and loud people who didn’t care that others were trying to talk. And kids, overtired, crying like there was no tomorrow.

You can picture it, right?

And right in the middle of it all, I found myself asking: “God, do You really want me to love all these people?” 

Jesus never said:  “Love one another when you like each other.”

No, he said: “Love your neighbor as yourself.” (Matthew 22:39) ❤️

Okay… Now let’s take a moment and look in the mirror. Don’t we also have habits that aren’t exactly pleasant? Maybe you’re not picking your nose in public, but if you’re honest, you know what I mean.

So how do we love people as ourselves when they’re so… different?

It’s actually simple: God isn’t asking you to become best friends with everyone. He’s inviting you not to dehumanize them.

➡️ Instead of complaining, smile about it. And remember your own weaknesses.

➡️ Instead of thinking, “Unbelievable!” Ask yourself: “What might this person be going through?”…and silently bless them.

Love doesn’t always start with closeness. It starts with an inner step back.

It starts with the thought that this person is more than what’s bothering me right now. ❤️

Will you carry that thought with you today, and choose love?

You are a miracle!