Change Your Perspective

I heard a story on the radio one morning -
A teacher received many things from her students for Christmas before winter break kicked in. Notes, jewelry, candy, etc. One that stood out to her especially was Lucky Charms marshmallows placed in a lunchroom plastic-ware bag. The student had used their bag from their breakfast utensils, picked out the marshmallows from their Lucky Charms, and tied it up daintily to gift their teacher before winter break. And this present was the teacher's favorite.

Now if you didn't know the situation of this student, or if you fail to see why Lucky Charms in a used baggie are a big deal over chocolate, jewelry, and hand-written notes, know that this student wanted to give this teacher something, anything to show their teacher how much they appreciated them. This student gave up part of their free breakfast for their teacher. It was all they had.

You can read this whole story here

Sometimes we don't know the whole story, and we judge by the first impression, or what the person brings to the table. Even if it isn't much, we don't know the whole story. Ironically, there is a similar story in the Bible:

"As Jesus looked up, he saw the rich putting their gifts into the temple treasury. He also saw a poor widow put in two very small copper coins. “Truly I tell you,”he said, “this poor widow has put in more than all the others. All these people gave their gifts out of their wealth; but she out of her poverty put in all she had to live on.” - Luke 21:1-4

You can't know a person until you know their story. Even though some people offer much money, many resources, or high skill, many others don't have the ability. See the small things someone gives or puts in and don't judge them. Empower them. Allow people to give anyway and feel like they can contribute, no matter what. Keep being empowered to give and allow yourself to contribute, no matter what. Change your perspective see people, not resources they give. 

No matter where you're at in your gifts, your talents, your resources, show God your heart with whatever you have to offer. See peoples' hearts, not their resources. Perspective is everything. Change your view for the top of the iceberg and dive under the surface to see the massive story beneath. Know a person before you judge them.

Scripture to read:
Colossians 3:2, Luke 21:1-4

Questions to ponder:
How does setting your mind on things above help you see the heart of people, not the resources?
What do you have to offer to the Lord? How does what you offer show your heart?
Do you know someone without much? What can you do to be a ray of hope for them today or this week?