Aug. 19, 2010
 
DEVOTION: Gracious Me
 
By Beth Bondurant
 
So easily comes judgement when a stranger nears our door without a valid invitation.... Gracious Me!
 
How unconcerned we are about quick comments regarding another person's choice of attire...Gracious Me!
 
It seems too difficult to accept ideas and responses that differ from our own experience... Gracious Me!
 
"May the Lord make your love increase and overflow for each other and for everyone else, just as ours does for you."
 
Gracious Me! .... but I'm not.
 
It is so much easier to talk unkindly... ungraciously about those around us who look different... sound different... live differently.
 
It usually isn't until we are placed into a vulnerable position we find ourselves appreciating the graciousness of others.
 
Walking into another person's world can open our eyes.... Gracious Me!
 
Feeling the warmth of a stranger's touch can open our heart... Gracious Me!
 
Listening to the words and hearing the story from a different perspective can open our mind... Gracious Me!
 
O God... forgive my ungraciousness when it comes to others ... especially ones I do not know. Today, help me to open my eyes to see Your love being poured out even by strangers. Allow me to be willing to receive Your mercy from the heart of contrary belief. Encourage my patience for those who live their own native legend with as much vigor as my own family. You have made us all. Your light shines within this magnificent diversity. GRACIOUS ME!