Devotional Reading from the Daily Common Lectionary: Mark 9:42-50

Text: If any of you put a stumbling block before one of these little ones who believe in me, it would be better for you if a great millstone were hung around your neck and you were thrown into the sea. (v. 42)

Do you know the name of your server in a restaurant? Nine times out of ten I introduce myself to them. I think that it is simply a polite thing to do. And then, if I need something I can ask them by name and thank them. 

I do this because a long time ago I learned that everything we do is educative. Everything. People learn about our character by the way we act and things we say. We, too, learn about others in the same way.

Jesus warned His disciples to be careful what they say and do because their actions or comments may push people away from Jesus! I’ve known too many people who have been wounded by those who say they are followers of Jesus. A missionary once told me that everyone lives Jesus, it’s just Christians they can’t stand! Christians are seen as being judgmental, prejudiced and closed-minded. This is too bad because Jesus was none of these things!

So, if you decide to take Jesus seriously be careful. Others may judge Him by you!

Lord, let me be humble enough to allow You to speak through me and act through me. Let me be transparent enough that when they see me, they see You. Amen