Perspective

 Last Sunday, I asked the kids in the K-5 ministry to think of someone they have seen or heard to be mean or unkind to others. Perhaps someone who uses bad words or disobeys their teacher or parents. Then I asked them, what if they heard that this person was different, they no longer use bad words, or perhaps are trying to be more kind or respectful to others? What if you heard they became a follower of Jesus – would you still believe they have changed? If you are wondering what the response was from the children, I didn’t ask for one. Instead, I left them with this thought – knowing Jesus changes how we see things and other people.

This perspective is true for the person who is recently following Jesus and for those who are already walking with the Lord. If you kneel before the throne of Jesus, you have a different way of thinking and viewing the world and people. This Sunday, all ages will be learning about how our Lord told Ananias to go and visit the recently believing Saul and through him restore this man’s sight (Acts 9:10-31). Ananias was at first fearful (rightfully so) but had reassurance from Jesus and to trust Him (vv.15-16). This disciple of Jesus (Ananias) has the choice to change his perspective and the opportunity to be part of our Lord’s redemptive story. The first step is breaking down barriers, acting on faith, and simply saying, “Here I am, Lord” (v.10).