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“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.” John 3:16 (ESV)

Have to admit I greatly miss having a Christian bookstore in town. I’m one of those nerdy readers who love to touch the pages of a book. Browsing up and down the aisles, I can spend hours checking out my next best read. And the first thing that always caught my eye was a compelling and beautiful cover. It drew me in like frosting on the sweetest cupcake ever. Totally delish to read – a story unraveling page by page.

Wonder how many times I missed a bestseller simply because the cover was different than the norm? Probably passed by many excellent books which where squeezed in with famous authors’ elaborate designs and completely missed out. Last summer, I read one of those Plain Jane covered books and found the most beautiful story packed full of truth and inspiration.

You just simply can’t judge a book by its cover, and the same is ever so true with people. We’ve all met individuals who look different from us. We’ve seen their tattooed covered skin and summarized their lack of character. We’ve distanced ourselves from those who clothes are torn, dirty and leave a distinct odor as they walk by. We’ve turned and walked a different way to avoid different which stirs fear within us. Sounds a lot like judging doesn’t it? Deciding on character, integrity, and intentions without choosing to entertain or invite different.

We all want to be included, accepted, invited and definitely not judged. No one desires to be viewed as unworthy of our conversation or interaction. Yet, we often default to keeping ourselves away from those who aren’t exactly like us.

“All” is one of the most beautiful words because it never excludes anyone. Jesus portrayed it best as He walked on this earth. He loved all. Came for all. Reached out to all. Wasn’t afraid of different. Never distanced Himself from anyone. Why? Because His Father loves us all. He created each and everyone of us uniquely different – all colors, sizes, backgrounds, preferences, etc. – we are beautiful and worthy in the eyes of our Creator. And the best way, we can demonstrate our love for God is to love all without reservation or judgement.

“Father, forgive us for moments when we choose not to love others. Show us who we need to extend love to and help us to decide judgement is better left in Your hands.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life