Beyond the Surface: Finding Compassion in Everyday Moments 🙏🏼😊

Encouragement for the Week 🌟

Beyond the Surface

As the taps on my foot grew louder as I waited for my turn at the grocery line…I felt my patience wearing thin. My first reaction was frustration as I stared at the back of the woman ahead as she slowly fumbled through her purse. “Why wasn't she prepared?” I thought. “Let’s goooo,” I whispered to myself. 

Looking back up from my watch, I saw her face slowly turn around and whisper a “I’m sorry” to the guy in between us. What I hadn't noticed before but now couldn't help seeing was the weariness in her eyes. The way her hands trembled slightly. A story untold. Instantly, my heart softened. 

It's so easy to judge the actions of others based on what we see on the surface and from our own perspective. Yet, we often forget that each person carries their own unseen burdens, their own untold stories. We see a snapshot—a moment of weakness, a poor decision, a sudden outburst—but not the entire narrative of their lives.

Jesus taught us through His own actions to look deeper. When He encountered the woman at the well, He saw more than her past; He saw her need for living water. He didn’t just see a tax collector in Zacchaeus; He saw a man hungry for change.

Today, and every day, let us challenge ourselves, myself included, to look beyond the surface. Let’s seek to understand rather than judge, to offer grace instead of criticism. We may not know the full story behind someone’s actions, but we can choose to respond with compassion and kindness. Remember, everyone is fighting a battle you know nothing about. 

“Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” ~Ephesians 4:32

Much Love and Blessings,

Ramzi